A new perspective on figurative art by Pete Mattinson

Solo Exhibition launches in the Life: Full Colour gallery in Caernarfon on Saturday 28^th June.

A new perspective on figurative art

In his latest solo show, Pete Mattinson (Pwllheli-based artist) pushes the boundaries of figurative art with his incredible paintings of figures conjured from neckties.  Full of colour, texture and light – they tell action-packed stories and deceive the viewer until closer inspection.

In this playful and surreal reimagining of the iconic photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper”, contemporary artist Pete Mattinson replaces steelworkers with cricket players – each figure conjured entirely from neckties. The swirling, striped fabrics twist into human-like forms full of energy and personality, suggesting movement, camaraderie, and athletic grace.

Irony and Whimsy

The use of neckties – symbols of conformity and office culture – adds irony and whimsy as they become avatars of action and rebellion, far removed from their typical associations. Mattinson’s figures, suspended high above a dreamlike cityscape, strike cricketing poses that transform a static historical image into a kinetic fantasy. The warm palette and ribbon-like rendering evoke both carnival and chaos, bridging the gap between the everyday and the extraordinary. In doing so, Mattinson collapses the boundaries between sport, labour, and art, turning something familiar into something gloriously surreal. Where ties are not constraints, but characters in motion.

And so much more in the collection…

And there’s so much more in his new collection of moody portraits and surreal encounters.

Join us at Celf Palas, 6 Palas St, Caernarfon on Saturday 28^th June from 2-5pm and meet Pete Mattinson in person.  For more information contact curator Sara McKee FRSA via hello@lifefullcolour.com or check out our online shop: lifefullcolour.co.uk