Tembi 1980

John Hoyland created 'Tembi,' a print in 1980 that pulses with blocks and fields of red. Hoyland emerged as a forceful voice in British abstract painting during the 1960s, a time of significant shifts in the art world. He challenged the established norms of British art institutions, which often favored more conservative, representational styles. 'Tembi' reflects an international movement towards abstraction, yet it does so with a distinct British sensibility. The print invites us to consider the social and cultural context in which abstract art gained prominence. Was it a rejection of traditional values? A reflection of a rapidly changing society? Art historians find answers to these questions by researching the exhibition histories and critical receptions, alongside the writings of the artists themselves. Ultimately, 'Tembi' is a testament to the enduring power of art to challenge, provoke, and reflect the social forces that shape its creation.