William Crozier’s work will take up space in the IMMA on Friday, 13th October for six months. This exhibition will focus on Crozier’s early works from the post war period, with 30 pieces mostly dominated by landscape paintings. Crozier’s work is stark, strong and generates an uneasy feeling which tells us he is sending a message greater than his simple landscapes. A world turned upside down by war and a man who is distraught by it all is what comes through this expressionist painters work. Crozier’s European links no doubt had an influence on his work. Crozier was born to Irish parents in Scotland in 1930, and in 1973 he became an Irish citizen where he would spend most of his time in Co Cork. Crozier graduated from the Glasgow school of art in 1953, and from there went to Paris, which he felt to be the most artistically and intellectually stimulating place in the world. He also spent time in Soho with ‘The Roberts’ , and went to Southern Spain with Anthony Cronin.
Crozier spent his time with European intellectuals, and had a fierce admiration for European painting as opposed to the Scottish styles. Probably most noticeable in his work is his following of Picasso, his favoured artist during a period where Europe was ripe with artistic talent like Duchamp, Matisse, Braque. It was rare for landscapes to be painted in such a meaty, heavy bold way , and this is what makes his pieces so delightful. The exhibition is free and is the perfect opportunity to see some fine 20th century painting with incredible influences.
Holly Lloyd – Arts Editor
