Unveiled Perception: Art through your eyes – Ethan Gourlay

These paintings were created during my final year at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design at the University of Dundee.

Welcome to an exhibition that places your interpretation at the forefront.  Art is a uniquely personal experience, shaped by individual perspectives, emotions, and backgrounds. The way you perceive each piece is influenced by numerous factors, whether it’s your own experiences, the visual elements like colour and symmetry, or even how others view the work.  These paintings were created during my final year at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design at the University of Dundee.

These works do not have titles to view that might influence your perception of the meaning of the work.  While an explanatory note is attached to the back of each artwork, I encourage you to leave it unopened at first (or even leave it forever unopened).  The true essence of the work lies in the connection you establish with it, free from any preconceptions. Your interpretation might align with my original intent, but it could just as easily differ, influenced by your personal experiences or the emotions stirred by the colours and forms.

Art isn’t solely about the artist’s vision; it’s equally about how you, the viewer, engage with it. Your background and mindset will shape what you see and feel, often revealing nuances that others might overlook.

As you explore this exhibition, take time to reflect on what you observe and let your imagination lead the way. Whether the colours and imagery stir feelings of anguish, joy, sorrow, love, or something entirely different, remember your reaction is the essence of this exhibition.  I’m simply giving you a shove, with dramatic imagery and colour for you to then create your own description of what the painting means.

Here, your interpretation is as important as mine. After all, it’s your opinion that truly matters.

As a Glasgow-born artist, my work is deeply influenced by the vibrant and raw energy of the city. My artistic journey began at the Tramway Open Studio, a space that allowed me to explore different mediums and ideas, laying the foundation for my formal education. After completing my City and Guild in Art and Design at Glasgow College, I was fortunate enough to be accepted into several prestigious art schools, ultimately choosing Duncan of Jordanstone, where I continue to develop my practice.

Art has become a powerful tool for me to manage my emotions and mental health. Through my work, I aim to shed light on the struggles faced by working people and those suffering from mental health challenges. A recurring theme in my practice is “The Pidgeon Man,” a well-known homeless figure on the streets of Dundee. His presence symbolises the marginalisation and resilience of those who are often overlooked. I’ve used this motif in some of my merchandise, available on my website.

I have sold over 100 pieces of artwork and have been commissioned by many people, with some collectors owning more than one of my works. Alongside my studies, I’ve organised events at university and worked various jobs to support myself, which has enabled me to travel and explore places of interest, such as Amman and Petra in Jordan. These travels have added to my experiences of different ways of life, from Kenya and Egypt to countries across Europe.

I’m also working on a dissertation exploring “the value of art”, examining how art influences behaviour, and the impact of art theft and notoriety. In the future, I hope to exhibit more widely, place my work in collections, and donate pieces to institutions and charities supporting mental wellbeing. My goal is to become a full-time working artist.