Alan Gouk b.1939

The bright, bold colours and Spanish title of the present work immediately convey the artist's affinity with Spain where he continues to spend time each year.  Although his style is predominantly abstract, his works do tend to be particularly inspired by time and place and in this case, the artist's attention was specifically captured when reading about Civilon, one of the only fighting bulls to be released from the bull ring on account of its bravery.   

Born in Belfast, Gouk studied architecture then Psychology and Philosophy before working at the British Council from 1964 - 67 helping to organize the British Pavilion at the 1966 Venice Biennale.  He was awarded a prize at the 1967 John Moores Liverpool exhibition and in the same year, began teaching at St Martin's School of Art, London where he went on to become Head of the Sculpture department. His work has been included in numerous group exhibitions at locations such as The Hayward Gallery, London; the Museum of Modern Art, Oxford and The Fruitmarket Gallery, Edinburgh and is held in several public collections including the Tate Gallery, London and the Collections of the British and Scottish Arts Councils.