Grand Insignia

Executed during the final year of the artist’s life, Grand Insignia demonstrates the confidence and freedom that characterised Davie’s late work.

Painted in oil directly onto a printed book page, the composition combines bold abstract forms with the visible remains of the underlying text. The printed words remain partially legible beneath translucent passages of paint, creating a layered surface in which image and language coexist.

The source text discusses the landscape of Cornwall, an unexpected and intriguing foundation for Davie’s abstract imagery. Whether selected intentionally or simply incorporated as part of his working process, the surviving fragments of text introduce an additional level of visual and conceptual interest, encouraging the viewer to consider the relationship between language, landscape and abstraction.

The painting retains the spontaneity that defines Davie’s work while revealing his continuing willingness to experiment with unconventional supports and layered surfaces throughout his career.

Research & Institutional References

Historical Context

Created in 2013, during the final year of Alan Davie’s career, the work reflects the freedom and inventiveness of his late practice.

Public Collections

Works by Alan Davie are represented in major public collections including Tate, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, the Museum of Modern Art, New York, and numerous international museums.