The Exchange

A captivating and expressive mid-century figurative painting depicting two stylised figures standing in quiet dialogue, executed in oil onto canvas.

Their forms are abstracted yet expressive – one slender and upright, the other broader with a gently tilted head, creating an intimate sense of interaction without relying on facial detail. The figures feel sculptural, almost totemic, evoking mood through posture rather than realism.

Rendered in a bold modernist style, the composition embraces simplified shapes and a strong graphic presence. The palette is warm and earthy, dominated by orange, rust, deep umber, charcoal, and muted mustard yellows. These tones are set against a pale, softly luminous background that enhances the painting’s sense of warmth and immediacy.

The brushwork is confident and textural, with broad, gestural strokes that give the figures weight and movement. Layered passages of paint create subtle ridges and variations, while the looser background wash keeps the scene airy and light. There is a raw, expressive quality to the application – intentional yet spontaneous.

A striking piece with strong presence, emotional ambiguity, and a wonderful interplay of colour and form.

This oil on canvas is presented in a complementary rich, dark wood frame. The painting is in excellent vintage condition. The frame has slight widening to the corners, some scuffs, as well as four small drill holes present  in each corner of the frame.

Size: 56 x 66 cm (including frame)