Here We Are in Croydon 1979 by Howard Hodgkin
Here We Are In Croydon
Howard Hodgkin's Emotional Landscape in "Here We Are In Croydon"
This 1979 work by Howard Hodgkin represents a pivotal moment in the artist's exploration of emotional expression through abstract forms. The painting's vibrant palette and gestural brushwork exemplify Hodgkin's mature style, where color and composition combine to evoke complex psychological states. Created during a period when Hodgkin was gaining international recognition, this piece demonstrates his unique approach to abstract expressionism, blending personal emotion with formal innovation.
The title "Here We Are In Croydon" suggests a specific location that serves as the emotional trigger for the work, though Hodgkin's treatment of the subject remains firmly abstract. The painting's layered surfaces and intense hues create a sense of depth and movement, inviting viewers to project their own experiences onto the canvas. This work belongs to a series where Hodgkin used wood as his support, allowing the grain to interact with his brushstrokes in unexpected ways.
Hodgkin's Mature Period and Emotional Abstraction
By 1979, Howard Hodgkin had firmly established his distinctive approach to abstract painting that would define his career. This period saw the artist moving away from the more representational elements of his earlier work toward a purer form of emotional abstraction. Hodgkin's paintings from this time often served as visual diaries, recording personal experiences and relationships through color and form rather than recognizable imagery.
The artist's work from this mature period frequently explored the boundaries between memory and immediate experience. As noted by the Tate, Hodgkin's paintings from the late 1970s demonstrate his "ability to convey complex emotional states through seemingly simple compositions" (tate.org.uk). This approach allowed viewers to engage with the works on multiple levels, finding their own meanings in the abstract forms.
"Here We Are In Croydon" exemplifies Hodgkin's genius for creating emotional resonance through color relationships, where each hue vibrates against its neighbors to produce a visceral response in the viewer.
Technical Innovations in Hodgkin's 1979 Composition
Layered Surfaces and Material Interaction
Hodgkin's choice of wood panel as his support in this work creates a dynamic interaction between the painted surface and the natural grain of the wood. The artist applied his pigments in multiple layers, allowing earlier marks to remain visible through subsequent applications. This technique produces a sense of depth and history within the painting, as if the viewer is seeing through multiple moments in time simultaneously.
The physical texture of the work becomes an integral part of its emotional impact. Hodgkin often used unconventional tools to apply his paint, creating varied surface qualities that catch the light differently. In "Here We Are In Croydon," these textural variations contribute significantly to the work's expressive power.
Color Relationships and Spatial Ambiguity
The painting demonstrates Hodgkin's sophisticated understanding of color theory and relationships. He juxtaposes warm and cool hues in ways that create visual tension and movement across the canvas. The colors appear to advance and recede, creating a sense of spatial ambiguity that draws viewers into the emotional landscape of the work.
Hodgkin's approach to composition in this piece shows his mastery of balancing formal elements with emotional expression. The placement of color masses creates a dynamic equilibrium, where the painting seems to exist in a state of constant flux. This careful arrangement of formal elements serves to heighten the emotional impact of the work.
Own This Masterful Example of Emotional Abstraction
Bring home this exquisite framed reproduction of Howard Hodgkin's "Here We Are In Croydon," presented in a premium gallery frame with archival-quality materials. Each print captures the vibrant colors and textural nuances of the original 1979 composition, with FREE worldwide shipping included in your purchase.
Add to CartDisplaying Your Hodgkin Print
This 30×40 cm framed print makes a striking statement in both contemporary and traditional interiors. The vibrant color palette works particularly well against neutral wall colors, where the hues can truly sing. Consider placing the work in a living room or study where it can be appreciated from various angles, as the textural qualities of the reproduction reveal themselves differently depending on the viewing position and lighting conditions.
The print's intimate scale makes it ideal for creating focal points in smaller spaces or as part of a gallery wall arrangement. When hanging, position the work at eye level to fully appreciate Hodgkin's masterful handling of color relationships. The framing style complements both modern and classic decor schemes, making this a versatile addition to any art collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of frame is included with this print?
Each print comes in a premium gallery frame made from sustainably sourced wood, with a neutral finish that complements the artwork without competing with it. The framing includes archival-quality matting and UV-protective glazing to preserve the print's vibrant colors.
Where do you ship from and how long does delivery take?
We ship worldwide from our fulfillment centers, with delivery typically taking 5-10 business days. All orders receive FREE shipping with tracking information provided. Production time for framing is included in this estimate.
How durable is the print quality?
Our prints are produced using fade-resistant inks on archival-quality paper, designed to maintain their vibrancy for decades when displayed away from direct sunlight. The UV-protective glazing in the frame provides additional protection against light damage.
What is your return policy?
We offer a 30-day return window for all purchases. If you're not completely satisfied with your framed print, you may return it in its original condition for a full refund. The return shipping cost is covered by the customer.
Sources & Further Reading
- Tate. "Howard Hodgkin: Biography and Artworks." tate.org.uk
- The Art Story. "Howard Hodgkin: British Abstract Expressionist Painter." theartstory.org
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This premium framed reproduction of "Here We Are In Croydon" captures the emotional depth and technical mastery of Howard Hodgkin's original 1979 composition. Each order includes FREE worldwide shipping and arrives ready to hang, with a certificate of authenticity.
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