One of Australia’s leading abstract sculptors, Philip Spelman, will present an exhibition at SevenMarks Gallery from February 8 to March 15.

Spelman, whose work has featured at the Australian National University, Canberra Museum and Art Gallery as well as many other spaces across Australia, New Zealand and the USA, will present his exhibition titled Framing Space.

“There’s internal space - negative spaces captured within the work - and then there are the positive elements within those spaces,” says Spelman, explaining his creative process.

“I've taken this framing space idea and created works from it. Some sculptures have a geometric framework, and I've worked inside those frameworks. They’re not literal picture frames, but they represent spaces that are contained."

Spelman’s work often incorporates geometric shapes, which he combines to transform familiar objects - such as tables, chairs, and vases - into something uniquely abstract. 

"I look at still life paintings and recreate the objects from those works in my style,” says Spelman. “I take vases and tables and, rather than replicate them directly, I translate them into three-dimensional sculptures.”

One way Spelman does this is to blend different geometric shapes which combine to create new forms. Relying on intuition, he arranges these shapes until the composition feels right. 

“I fabricate elements and laser-cut or water-jet cut them to suit the sculptures. I might make hundreds of elements, then experiment with them, placing them in various ways to see if the composition works,” he explains.

This abstract approach encourages viewers to use their imagination, prompting different interpretations of the sculptures. 

"I’ve placed abstract works in regional and rural communities before, and in public spaces, which can be challenging for some people,” he says. “But it’s always interesting to hear the different comments and interpretations. People bring their own ideas to the work, and it’s fascinating to see how they respond.”

He is particularly excited about this exhibition at SevenMarks Gallery due to its location and the space itself. 

"I’m really excited about this regional exhibition,” says Spelman. “It’s important to me, especially since many galleries are closing or moving to online platforms. To see a new gallery opening is fantastic. The space is beautiful and large, which makes it ideal for my work.”

SevenMarks Gallery says of the exhibition: “Phil’s vibrant sculptures engage with both natural and defined spaces, reshaping the gallery landscape through their luminosity, depth, and bold silhouettes. These abstract constructions balance, tumble, and float, creating dynamic compositions of positive and negative space.”

Don’t miss Philip Spelman’s Framing Space exhibition at SevenMarks Gallery, opening on February 8.