In the summer we were treated to a remarkable exhibition at the Royal Scottish Academy (RSA), celebrating the lives and artistic contributions of Dame Elizabeth Blackadder RSA and John Houston RSA. Titled "A Journey Shared," the exhibition offered a captivating insight into the travels, research, and studio practices of these two influential Scottish artists.
Running from 29th July to 10th September 2023, "A Journey Shared" was a testament to the enduring legacy of Blackadder and Houston. The exhibition coincided with the RSA Blackadder Houston Bequest, a significant and generous gift from the artists to the Academy, valued at over £7 million. This bequest aimed to create new opportunities for emerging artists through prizes, bursaries, and travel awards.
Visitors to the exhibition were treated to a diverse collection of works representing the breadth of Blackadder and Houston's careers. From early drawings and paintings to masterpieces from their mature periods, the showcase offered unparalleled insight into their artistic evolution. Additionally, the exhibition highlighted their shared passion for travel and research, tracing their journeys and symbiotic artistic practices.
Blackadder and Houston's artistic journey began during their time as students at the Edinburgh College of Art (ECA). Under the guidance of influential painters like Sir William McTaggart and William Gillies, they embarked on a series of transformative study and travel trips. Their shared experiences, including travel scholarships spent exploring the Mediterranean, laid the foundation for their artistic pursuits.
Blackadder's interest in still-life painting, Byzantine culture and later Zen influences, as well as Houston's fascination with Expressionism and contemporary artists like Nicolas de Staël, shaped their artistic identities. Despite diverging paths in their styles and approaches, their shared commitment to artistic exploration and expression remained a constant theme throughout their careers.
The exhibition provided an opportunity to reflect on the influences that shaped Blackadder and Houston's work. From the traditional teachings of Edinburgh College of Art to encounters with contemporary European artists, their artistic development was deeply influenced by a diverse range of experiences. Blackadder's muted colour palette and delicate compositions echoed the influences of artists like Henri Matisse and Giorgio Morandi, while Houston's bold, expressive landscapes drew inspiration from Edvard Munch and William de Kooning.
Viewing Blackadder and Houston's works together in a curated space was a visceral experience. From serene still lifes to dynamic, emotive landscapes, each piece invited viewers to engage with the artists' unique perspectives and interpretations of the world. Whether depicting the tranquility of a still life or the raw energy of nature, their art spoke volumes about the human experience and the power of artistic expression.
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