The Kerlin Gallery is pleased to announce Tony Swain's first solo show in Ireland from 29 April to 28 May, 2005.

Tony Swains paintings present an array of strange, alluring and altogether fantastical worlds that defy easy categorisation. The disposable daily newspaper or Sunday supplement provides the support upon which the artist constructs highly considered compositions and finely articulated images. Geometric patterns and abstract motifs are seamlessly intertwined with the hint of interiors, landscapes and figures.

Through the delicate use of suggestion Swain's paintings seem, at times familiar and readable and at times unrecognisable and surreal. 'Semiabstract designs, with chevrons and loose grids, and rudimentary evocations of perspective and special illusioni, invite direct material and aesthetic response. He engages the viewer's physical and emotional empathy as much as or simultaneously with - intellectual speculation.' Merlin James

Born in Lisburn, Co. Antrim in 1967, Swain graduated from the Glasgow School of Art in 1990. He continues to live and work in Glasgow. Recent exhibition a solo show at the Modern Institute, Glasgow and a three person show with JP Monroe and Alex Pollard at the Transmission Gallery in Glasgow. His work is in many private and public collections including San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and The Museum of Modern Art, New York.

Tony Swain is also a one third of the critically acclaimed band 'Hassle Hound' whose new LP is due for release soon on Pickled Egg records.