Hilton, Roger
In this abstract painting 'February-March' 1954, Roger Hilton has assembled flat and irregular shapes on the canvas like a collage. Energetic brushstrokes animate the picture plane, giving the work a sense of raw spontaneity. 'February-March 1954' is one of several works by Hilton from this period to use the date as a title. Less anonymous than leaving the work untitled, the date situates the moment of artistic expression in time.
The early 1950s was a decade in which Hilton's work was essentially abstract, combining simple forms and strong colours. It was in 1953 that Hilton met the Dutch artist Constant. Together they visited Holland where they saw the work of Piet Mondrian. Mondrian is stated as an influence for the prominent use of red, black and white in this work.
Caroline Hancock
Exhibition Organiser
Hayward Gallery
February - March 1954
1954