“Keith Ashley’s response to his subject is keen-eyed and his commanding draughtsmanship deeply felt. Throughout this richly wide range of mood, each image, by its power and intensity, reveals the Crow - dramatic and forever mysterious.“ Maggi Hambling CBE

Keith Ashley uses monotype as a way of examining the enduring fascination and symbolism of the crow, depicting it in a starkly ominous landscape which allows the artist to experiment with mark making, creating prints rich in depth and complexity. The unpredictable nature of the medium - each image is unique, with dramatic variations in texture and tone - captures the raw emotion and intensity of the moment in time.

With its black plummage and intelligent demeanour, the crow has long been associated with death, magic and trickery. To some, the crow is seen as representative of bad fortune, to others emissaries of change and transformation, occupying an elusive space on the edges of the physical world.

Crows are also often portrayed as omens or harbingers, and this series, made just prior to the COVID-19 lockdown, seems to prefigure the isolation and anxiety of the past few years. Each print invites the viewer to contemplate themes of mortality and loneliness in the haunting presence of these solitary birds, explore the unknown and find comfort in darkness.

Keith lives and works in London. He is a graduate of the Norwich School of Art and Chelsea School of Art and has exhibited widely across the capital. The Messenger is his latest solo show.

A free exhibition of original work, with proceeds from all sales going to the artist and funding public programmes in advancing and diversifying engagement in visual storytelling.