Repetition: Malcolm’s Collage Process

Abstraction emerged as a defining theme in Malcolm's artistic journey, shaping his approach to form, space, and meaning.

For Malcolm, abstraction was not merely an aesthetic choice but a profound way to engage with formal spatial ideas. By removing direct representational elements, he explored the essence of visual balance, rhythm, and structure. This approach allowed him to navigate the thin, compelling line between recognizability and pure abstraction.

As he observed, “The dividing line between an image taking on meaning through rendering familiar metaphors and an abstract image taking on meaning through abstract representation is a very interesting place.”

A significant part of Malcolm’s exploration of abstraction involved his experiments with collage. Collage became a medium for him to juxtapose textures, colors, and shapes, breaking down traditional notions of composition. By assembling disparate elements, Malcolm created works that blurred the line between chaos and order, inviting viewers to engage with each fragment individually while contemplating the harmony of the whole. His collages were not merely about layering materials but about layering meanings, where each piece contributed to a broader dialogue about space, balance, and perception. This technique further allowed him to push abstraction into new territories, combining organic forms with geometric precision, resulting in works that felt both spontaneous and meticulously constructed.

Through his commitment to abstraction and collage, Malcolm developed a visual language that was deeply personal yet universally resonant. His work challenges audiences to reconsider how meaning is constructed and interpreted in visual art. By shifting focus away from representational accuracy, he opened up spaces for emotional and intellectual engagement, encouraging a dialogue between the artist, the artwork, and the viewer. In doing so, Malcolm not only expanded the possibilities of abstraction but also underscored its enduring power to evoke profound connections and insights.

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Inside Malcolm’s Studio