Straight and Narrow: The Work of George Westren

Moving exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery of geometric abstract work by George Westren

Inspired by seeing an exhibition of Bridget Riley’s work Westren had produced very precise pictures which stimulate optical effects. I find this type of work quite difficult to look at but couldn’t help but admire the detail and was fascinated at looking closely to see the hand work in them as they look like they might have been digitally produced.

It was well worth watching the video about the artist. He had been homeless and had addiction issues, with the help of doing these pictures pulled his life around but sadly died during Covid. The work was saved by a neighbour when he saw Westren’s flat being cleared. Following a tv news story and a Twitter feed of the work a small run of prints has raised money to preserve and catalogue the collection.

Closed 25 January 2023


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