Focusing on large-scale paintings made by the Grenada-born, Cornwall-based artist from the last two decades, the exhibition comprises vivid, colourful works that capture the dynamic energy of the London reggae and dub nightclub scene during the early 1980s, a subject that has endured throughout 40 years of the artist's practice. Forrester's paintings typically begin as quick sketches, often made during the length of a single track and drawn quasi-blind on dark, bustling dancefloors.
Having visited Kingston for the first time in 2019, the artist also showcases a new body of work that captures the vibrant atmosphere of the city's sound systems. Five new paintings are exhibited alongside original, preparatory drawings that Forrester made whilst immersed in Jamaica's nightlife. 'Itchin & Scratchin' is punctuated by significant earlier works to demonstrate the breadth of the artist's practice, Forrester's use of recurring motifs and his continued commitment to exploring the energy of London's music halls.
'Itchin & Scratchin' is presented alongside two other solo exhibitions at Nottingham Contemporary: a selected survey of Diane Simpson's minimalist sculptures and drawings spanning her 40-year practice and an exhibition of new work by Sung Tieu exploring sound, conflict and how political ideas are disseminated.
The exhibition is presented in partnership with Spike Island and curated by Sam Thorne, with assistance by Olivia Aherne.
