Nigel Howlett

The Face Before You Were Born (Signed Collector's Edition)

€250

Artwork

Edition of 12526.7 (H) × 20.7 (W) × 1.9 (D) cmFree worldwide shippingShipping est. 2 weeks

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The surreal and uncanny surface in Nigel Howlett’s monochromatic visions of human complexity.

The Face Before You Were Born takes its title from Howlett’s debut solo show at Ojiri Gallery in London. The book acts as an archive for the seamlessly rendered, faceless figures seen in the show and the captivating processes that underpin them. Unseen sketches, mini-essays and high quality artwork images are brought together across 110 pages in 3 carefully chosen paper stocks.

A special collector’s edition has been created with black foiling on the exterior and black-edged interior pages – each copy individually signed by the artist.

Foreword and essays by Millie Walton, photography by James Bryant and design by Punkt, London.

Behind the scenes

Nigel Howlett wearing a hat and glasses looking to the side

Nigel Howlett3 collaborationsNigel Howlett’s paintings and drawings are funny-yet-tender reflections on life. The cartoonish protagonist is an androgynous figure in a near-constant state of melodrama. It sits with its head in hands. Sometimes slumped, sometimes praying. Cartoons, Surrealism and Adam Curtis documentaries are few key inspirations. Taking prompt from these, Howlett’s work is intentionally universal. “We always project onto forms and characters we look at. The more simple they are, the easier it is for us to do.” Recent works see the artist move from paper to canvas. Likewise, charcoal and graphite have been replaced with oil paint. Umber now also brings a subdued warmth to his monochromatic palette. Process, however, remains unchanged. Howlett plans, edits and refines until each work is as concise and clear as possible.

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Reviews from Avant collectors

It's my 1st art piece and I love it! I wish I got it framed.
Review of Guardian
What a breathtakingly beautiful art print! What a great service!
Review of Inner Love
This is my 4th purchase from you and I remain thoroughly impressed with all that you do. Thanks!
Review of Fuzz Gathering
thank you very much. Everything was perfect. You went above my expectations (quality of packaging, frame, goodies). It was a really great experience.
Review of Chromie Squiggle #8107
I love it! beautifully framed.Thanks
Review of Untitled [Man in Car with Shed]
really a masterpiece to add in my collection!Thanks a lot🙏🏻❤️
Review of Descendent - Lucid Dreamer
very good quality of the print and very professional service 👍
Review of Inner Love
From start to finish, the process of purchasing, claiming the NFT counterpart, and receiving the framed piece was nothing short of excellent. My entire experience with Avant Arte displayed a level of professionalism and excellence across the board. Well done!
Review of Ringers #962: The LACMA Iterations

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