mu#7 by Paul Blenkhorn

MU#7 Painting Acrylic on Canvas - 91.4 cm wide by 144.8 cm high.

Paul Blenkhorn’s painting “mu#7” is a compelling piece that captures the essence of abstract expressionism while reflecting the artist’s deep engagement with sensory experiences. Created in 2020, this work on canvas (91.4 cm wide by 144.8 cm high) uses acrylic to explore the interplay of light, colour, and form in a style that feels both spontaneous and meticulously considered. Blenkhorn’s artistic journey, influenced by his extensive work in sensory stimulation and visual engagement for individuals with disabilities, brings a unique layer of depth to his abstract creations.

The painting is characterised by a series of layered blocks of colour that seem to hover and shift within the canvas, creating a dynamic sense of movement and depth. Dominating the upper portion is a deep, inky blue that contrasts starkly with the softer, textured whites and greys beneath it, evoking a feeling of vastness and introspection. The use of red-orange hues towards the centre and lower right of the canvas introduces a sense of warmth and intensity, creating a striking visual counterpoint that draws the viewer’s eye across the piece.

Blenkhorn’s fascination with the nature of light—whether emitted from screens or reflected off surfaces—is subtly echoed in the painting's composition. The textured and layered approach suggests a reflection of Blenkhorn’s thoughts on light’s interaction with different materials, hinting at an inner dialogue between the natural and the artificial, the seen and the unseen. The application of paint varies from soft, almost cloud-like dabs to denser, more opaque strokes, adding to the tactile quality of the work and inviting viewers to lose themselves in its atmospheric presence.

“mu#7” feels simultaneously deliberate and instinctive, as if each mark was guided by a quiet yet persistent emotional current. Blenkhorn’s process, as he describes, is often driven by mood, influence, or the direction of the “wind,” allowing his works to evolve organically on the canvas. This approach brings a palpable spontaneity to “mu#7,” reminiscent of the freedom found in the works of the abstract expressionists who have influenced him.

The abstract nature of “mu#7” invites a personal interpretation—one might see landscapes, emotional states, or entirely abstract sensations within its bounds. This openness is a testament to Blenkhorn’s ability to create art that resonates on multiple levels, grounded in both personal experience and broader sensory exploration. By drawing on his background in visual stimulation and his deep understanding of how light interacts with surfaces, Blenkhorn continues to push the boundaries of abstract art, making “mu#7” not just a painting but an experience in itself.

In “mu#7,” Paul Blenkhorn effectively bridges his passion for sensory engagement and modern art, resulting in a work that is as intellectually engaging as it is visually stimulating. The piece stands as a vibrant refection to his diverse artistic approach and his ongoing exploration of form, light, and the emotional impact of colour.

This work is available to buy on Saatchi Art.