Nigel Howlett

The Face Before You Were Born

€85

Artwork

Edition of 30026.7 (H) × 20.7 (W) × 1.9 (D) cmFree worldwide shippingShipping est. 2 weeks

The surreal and uncanny surface in Nigel Howlett’s monochromatic visions of human complexity.

The Face Before You Were Born takes its title from Howlett’s debut solo show at Ojiri Gallery in London. The book acts as an archive for the seamlessly rendered, faceless figures seen in the show and the captivating processes that underpin them. Unseen sketches, mini-essays and high quality artwork images are brought together across 110 pages in 3 carefully chosen paper stocks.

Foreword and essays by Millie Walton, photography by James Bryant and designed by Punkt, London.

Medium

Hardback art book printed on 170gsm Heaven 42, 80gsm Offenbach Bible and 150gsm Symbol Tatami White papers by Generation Press in London.

Release date

March 31, 2022

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Behind the scenes

Nigel Howlett wearing a hat and glasses looking to the side

Nigel Howlett3 collaborationsNigel Howlett’s paintings and drawings are funny-yet-tender reflections on life. The cartoonish protagonist is an androgynous figure in a near-constant state of melodrama. It sits with its head in hands. Sometimes slumped, sometimes praying. Cartoons, Surrealism and Adam Curtis documentaries are few key inspirations. Taking prompt from these, Howlett’s work is intentionally universal. “We always project onto forms and characters we look at. The more simple they are, the easier it is for us to do.” Recent works see the artist move from paper to canvas. Likewise, charcoal and graphite have been replaced with oil paint. Umber now also brings a subdued warmth to his monochromatic palette. Process, however, remains unchanged. Howlett plans, edits and refines until each work is as concise and clear as possible.

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Reviews from Avant collectors

The print is beautifully made, and I love it.
Review of Portrait of Maya #10
The packaging is always good but this was superb. And the piece exceeded all expectations.
Review of Ugly Bastard
what an amazing experience from top to bottom. The best communication, print quality and packing. This is my first time purchasing from you and I look forward to my next purchase.
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The piece looks great and we love having it in our home and added to our collection! Thanks so much...
Review of Out of the Dark
communication, shipping integrity, and overall piece were all great! recommended!
Review of Untitled [Man in Car with Shed]
Every detail about this work is brilliant, especially the work itself. Thank you for bringing an incredible talent pool of artists to the public.
Review of Scaffold
Excellent quality and communication! excited to continue this relationship with Avant Arte and team, and explore more art
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