Artwork Information

‘A triptych is a very challenging format.’

Philip Clairmont

Clairmont combines three perspectives, and gazes upwards and downwards. The dizzying views suggest that the space itself is experiencing a continuous vertigo. These stairs are thrilling and scary at the same moment. Danger and delight are ever present – like an especially thrilling movie.

Exposed light bulbs highlight the jagged blackened reds, scorched yellows and the midnight-blues. Clairmont’s use of dry, fractured colour further communicates a mood of exalted delight. This staircase possesses an authentic drama, as if a real physical entity is about to be encountered.

(Self and Other, 2003)