John Beard - Mercedes I

"Mercedes I," a silkscreen by John Beard and one of two in the Mercedes series, is a masterful blend of abstraction and contemporary pop art. This piece, created in 1988 (in a limited edition of 50 works and 1 artist proof), demonstrates Beard's individualistic approach to his artistic practice, where he merges semi-abstraction with elements of both historical references and pop culture. The large format silkscreen is a dynamic composition that challenges our perceptions with an exploration of form, colour, and texture.

"Mercedes I" is characterised by its layered complexity and bold use of colour. The dominant hues of grey, yellow and gold create a stark contrast with neon areas of pink, yellow and blue adding a sense of movement and energy to the composition. The abstract forms seem to float and interact within the space, creating a sense of depth and dynamism. The presence of recognisable yet disassociated abstracted objects, such as the silhouette of a sarcophagus and a sculptural form, overlaying what anchors the piece (a large graffiti style symbol) while pushing the boundaries of abstraction. By incorporating complex imagery such as sarcophagi, burial sculptures, and machinery, elements that are rich with symbolic meaning, they reflect Beard's broader artistic themes and techniques.

The objects introduce the concepts of mortality, memory, and the passage of time. Juxtaposed with a subdued background and bright areas of colour, these elements can be seen as a meditation on the vibrancy of life and the evolving human condition, evoking the transient nature of life and the enduring presence of death. Beard's work often delves into collective memory and cultural history, drawing emotive responses from the viewer. The use of these funerary images aligns with his interest in exploring the essence of objects and their historical and societal significance.

This juxtaposition may highlight the tension between the past and the present, tradition and modernity - references that often form the basis of Beards work.

The large symbol central to the artwork, which appears to relate to the Mercedes car logo, introduces another layer of meaning. The Mercedes-Benz logo, portrayed as if graffiti on a wall, a three-pointed star, symbolises the company's dominance over land, sea, and air. By incorporating this logo, Beard is seemingly commenting on the pervasive influence of corporate and industrial power in modern society, and the commodification of culture.

Beard's style is characterised by semi-abstraction and a meditative approach to his subjects. His works often feature dark, monochrome washes, creating a sense of objects on the brink of disappearance. This technique contributes to the haunting and reflective quality of the "Mercedes" series, inviting viewers to ponder the deeper meanings behind this complex imagery.

The “Mercedes” series (with three other silkscreen works created by Beard in this style) can be seen as a dialogue with the abstract expressionist movement, particularly the works of artists like Robert Rauschenberg and Jasper Johns, who similarly incorporated elements of popular culture into their abstract compositions. Like Rauschenberg, Beard employs a collage-like technique, layering different textures and forms to create a rich, multifaceted visual experience. The use of screen printing also aligns Beard with Andy Warhol’s pop art practices, where the medium itself becomes a critical part of the artwork's message.

While Beard was a masterful printer, he focused predominantly on painting. Although these prints are unique in his body of work, "Mercedes I" stands as a testament to Beard's ability to fuse different artistic traditions and mediums into a cohesive and compelling visual narrative. His use of semi-abstraction allows for a nuanced exploration of contemporary themes, making his work both intellectually and visually engaging.

In the broader context of contemporary art, John Beard’s "Mercedes I" exemplifies the ongoing relevance and adaptability of abstract art today. By incorporating elements of symbolism, pop art and abstraction, Beard creates a unique visual language that resonates with a wide audience, ensuring his place as a pivotal figure in the art world.