NOn you can certainly say that and Sheeran loves monotony. After dominating the global rankings and filled stadiums with its pop ballads, The British artist decided to change canvas, literally. In a moment of break between one tour and another, Sheeran has the brushes is harnessed and given to a series of abstract works inspired by the cosmos and, more clearly, a Jackson Pollock. The results? A new exhibition at the Heni Gallery in London and contrasting opinions: enthusiasm by fans, perplexity by critics.
Ed Sheeran, a passion for art born in the family
Painting is not a whim of the last hour. “I started painting at the end of mine Divide Tour In 2019 and it is something that I have since used as a creative valve », said Sheeran al Guardian. Son of two active parents in the art world, he has cultivated an interest in colors and shapes since he was a child. “I always liked to study art at school,” he adds. Today, those influences translate into Cosmic Carpark Paintings, Large canvases made with home paintsdense with bright chromatisms and large gestures.
Show at the Heni Gallery in London and works for sale
From 11 July to 1 AugustSheeran’s works will be On display in the central Heni Gallery in Londonin the same artistic circuit as quoted and controversial leader of the YBAS current Damien Hirst. The paintings, also proposed in the press version, start from a base price of 900 pounds. There half of the proceeds will go to Ed Sheeran Foundationwhich promotes musical education In British public schools. A gesture in continuity with the singer’s commitment, who recently asked the British government 250 million pounds to support music among young people.
Pollock style paintings by Ed Sheeran: the criticism is ruthless
But if fans applaud, criticism is less indulgent. “A big tribute to Pollock”, Jonathan Jones writes on Guardian, “But without feeling or truth”. According to Jones, Sheeran’s paintings “They look like visual cocktails”, without emotional tension which characterized the action painting of the American master. The point is not the technical ability, but the superficiality perceived: «A light, but empty touch. No suffering, only entertainment».
Ed Sheeran at the exhibition of his Cosmic Carpark Paintings paintings at the Heni Gallery in London (IPA)
Art from celebrity or authentic commitment?
Sheeran is not the first pop artist to try his hand at painting, just think of Ronnie Wood or Bob Dylan. However, while they measured themselves with the figurative, Sheeran prefers abstractperhaps also to dodge too severe judgments. But this exposes him to suspect that his art is An image operation rather than a true expressive path. Yet, the success of the charity initiative and the charm of its visual universe speak to an audience that perhaps does not seek masterpieces, but emotional connection.
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