Sean Scully Discusses Loss and Memory in New 'Wall of Light' Works at Thaddaeus Ropac Salzburg
The Facts
On July 31, 2026, Thaddaeus Ropac gallery in Salzburg opened an exhibition of new works by Sean Scully, titled 'To Feel.' The Irish artist, known for his abstract geometric paintings, debuted pieces from his ongoing 'Wall of Light' series. In an interview conducted on the opening day, Scully discussed the emotional and autobiographical dimensions of the works, describing them as 'emotional arenas' that engage with their own archaeology and sense of loss. The exhibition includes the painting 'La Grande Mer,' which took three years to complete and retains only a green bar from its original, more colorful version.
The Signal
For collectors and curators, Scully's new direction signals a deliberate shift from the 'shock of reality' toward what he calls 'pure pictoriality,' a move that may redefine the market for his work. The emphasis on emotional weight and narrative within abstraction suggests a maturation of his practice that could appeal to institutions seeking depth in contemporary abstraction. The exhibition's focus on loss and memory, articulated through the artist's own commentary, positions these works as intimate self-portraits, potentially increasing their desirability among serious collectors of post-war and contemporary art.
- Artists: Sean Scully
- People: Frank Lassak
- Galleries: Thaddaeus Ropac
- Locations: Salzburg
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