Ian Tyson

“ I remember reading an article in Artforum whose conclusion was that the grid was a very restrictive structure. I really think it’s limitless. It’s not simply a structure made up of squares … my essential interest in it lies in the kind of metaphorical use of the paint itself (...) a metaphor for other kinds of emotion.

Printer, artist, and poet Ian Tyson (1933-2021) created a real breadth of print and sculptural work during his 88 years. Living between London and Provence, he worked with Ron King’s Circle Press and his own imprints—Tetrad Press and ed.it—to produce limited-edition prints, artist books, and even musical scores. Almost all of Tyson’s work either figures or references a grid, of which he always spoke passionately when interviewed or pressed on the topic. Practically, it consists of lines and squares. Eschewing overly romantic descriptions or hidden meanings, however, he preferred to know how the geographic elements of his work made the viewer feel.

Tyson studied at Birkenhead School of Art and the Royal Academy Schools.

Image: Ian Tyson © 'Ian Tyson in his studio' Bridwell Library Special Collections