Gormleys is delighted to present an exhibition by Irish artist Ian Cumberland.

While typically known for his complex figurative pieces, which often contain audio-visual elements with deep symbolism and societal critique,  this new exhibition of floral still-life paintings offers a compelling exploration of colour, texture, and composition.

Each painting is a vibrant reimagining of traditional still life, where the meticulous arrangement of flowers becomes a study in contrast and harmony. The bold use of backgrounds— ranging from deep purples and oranges to serene blues and greens— highlights the delicate nature of the floral subjects and juxtaposes their ephemeral beauty against striking, often unexpected, colour fields.

Cumberland’s technique demonstrates a masterful command of light and shadow, giving the blooms a three-dimensional presence that captivates the viewer.

‘Still’ is a visually vibrant series of paintings featuring colourful vases of flowers, which tread the line between abstraction and realism, incorporating subtle distortions that create a sense of disruption. The series is a direct response to Cumberland’s transition into fatherhood and the changes it has brought to his life as an artist.

“As I’ve created pieces within the Still series, the underlying themes of simplicity and downtime have grown significant for me. Initially, the concept stemmed from my new role as a father and the need to balance my creative pursuits with the demands of this new chapter of life.”

“However, as I’ve worked on these paintings, I’ve come to see them as more than just a reprieve or a temporary shift in focus. They’ve become a way to refine my understanding of composition, light, and colour without the weight of a dense narrative or intricate symbolism.”

“What has evolved is my recognition of how the simplicity of these works allows subtle complexities to emerge naturally. The flowers themselves— delicate, vibrant, and transient, become central metaphors for time, beauty, and change.

Ian Cumberland (b.1983) is an Irish visual artist based in Belfast. Since studying fine art at Ulster University, graduating in 2006 with a First Class Honours degree, he has gone on to exhibit his work nationally and internationally, in cities including London, New York, Boston, Belfast and Dublin. In addition, Cumberland has exhibited at the National Portrait Gallery in London, The National Gallery of Ireland, the RHA Dublin and the RUA Belfast.