IAIN FAULKNER: ONE-MAN EXHIBITION
	FOREWORD Unquestionably, there is a cinematic quality to the new works by Iain Faulkner. Each painting is focused, yet in motion - a moment caught like a single frame of time in a continuing story. But like a movie still, when the past and present are not revealed, the reality is heightened with a sense of immediacy, mystery and intimacy. The young man in the white shirt and suspenders or braces, as they are called in the artist's native Scotland, has become a familiar centerpiece in the works of Iain Faulkner. Often the figure he depicts is a self-portrait and the context in which we find him somewhat autobiographical. But in this new series of work he is not alone, as in the past when seen pondering life at the edge of a Scottish loch. Nor is he with his kinsman relaxing at end of day. Now he is coupled, one of two. And their journey together, whether new or old, long or short, is one we visit like a getaway weekend - full of time, pleasure and each other. While he seems masterful at chess, she is clearly in command while shopping. He stands decidedly over her seated figure, while she seems hesitant, contemplating her next move on the chessboard. Yet in her bailiwick, she is in front leading a parade of one while he follows arms weighted down with packages. This is a relationship of equals though perhaps in different arenas. The misty nighttime scenes are full of atmosphere and more than just a little romance. The way we would like to see ourselves embracing at the beginning or better yet, at the end of an evening out. We wait as she searches for the key in her bag and he stands ready, champagne in hand. When he leaves to check-out, it seems to acknowledge their return to normalcy, whether alone or together. That remains open to our own desires. Perhaps this is a clue to what makes the artist's work so fascinating. At first the interpretation may appear apparent. Yet the nuance in expression and gesture gives us pause and leaves the narrative open and lastingly engaging. None of these subtleties could be achieved without Faulkner's technical mastery and superb skill as a painter. The diffusion of lights sparkling from behind a store's window, the hint of a smile barely appearing in a woman's eyes, a couple illuminated only by the mist reflected in a neon sign - all are the intricacies and layers which set the mood. Like a great director in a movie, Faulkner tells a tale painting by painting. Each stands alone - a complete story unto itself. Yet there is the added pleasure of seeing them together relating one to another. Iain Faulkner is a graduate of the Glasgow School of Art, receiving his Bachelor's Degree in 1996. Mr. Faulkner enjoys international reputation and his work has been exhibited in Scotland, England, Italy and Spain. He is represented in the United States exclusively by the Eleanor Ettinger Gallery.
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