Martha Beck

Robert Priseman: A Life in Provocative Art

Robert Priseman (born 1965) is a British artist, collector, writer, curator and publisher who lives and works in Essex, England. His career spans diverse artistic pursuits, marked by a consistent engagement with challenging socio-political themes and a dedication to fostering dialogue within the contemporary art landscape.

Early Life and Artistic Beginnings

Priseman’s academic foundation was laid at the University of Essex, where he studied Aesthetics and Art Theory under the influential Professor Michael Podro. This theoretical grounding profoundly shaped his artistic approach. He began his professional life as a book designer for Longman Publishers (1989-1992), concurrently developing his skills as a portrait painter in oils. During this period, he created portraits of notable figures including the Dalai Lama, Phil Collins, Jeremy Paxman and Cardinal Basil Hume. These early works are held in prestigious collections such as the Royal Collection at Windsor Castle and Corpus Christi College Cambridge.

A Shift Towards Thematic Exploration

In 2004, Priseman underwent a significant artistic shift, abandoning portraiture to embark on thematic series designed to provoke thought and engage viewers in critical discussions. This marked the beginning of his most recognized work, characterized by its unflinching exploration of difficult subjects.

Major Series and Artistic Themes

• The Hospital Paintings: Early explorations into institutional spaces and their psychological impact.
• Subterraneans: Investigations into hidden worlds and marginalized communities.
• The Francis Bacon Interiors: A deeply personal series depicting the Paris hotel room where George Dyer, Bacon’s lover, committed suicide, the hospital room where Bacon died, and his studios – a poignant exploration of grief, loss, and artistic creation.
• No Human Way to Kill: Perhaps Priseman's most impactful work, this series presents the five methods of execution used in the USA (hanging, firing squad, gassing, lethal injection, and electrocution), alongside etchings detailing other global practices. It argues that execution is a socially constructed act.
• The Troubles: A powerful reflection on the conflict in Northern Ireland.
• Nazi Gas Chambers: An unflinching confrontation with the horrors of the Holocaust.

Championing Contemporary British Painting

Priseman’s commitment extends beyond his own artistic practice. In 2013, he co-founded Contemporary British Painting with artist Simon Carter – a platform dedicated to promoting and contextualizing current painting practices in the UK through exhibitions, talks, publications, and an art prize. He also established ‘east contemporary art’ at University Campus Suffolk.

Collecting and Philanthropy

Priseman is an avid collector of British paintings, owning the “Priseman Seabrook Collection of 21st Century British Painting,” which debuted at Huddersfield Art Gallery in 2014. In 2013, he generously donated ‘The Robert Priseman Gift’ – a collection of twenty paintings by contemporary British artists – to Falmouth Art Gallery.

Academic and Professional Recognition

Priseman's contributions have been recognized through several academic appointments: Fellow at the Human Rights Centre, University of Essex (2010); Visiting Professor in Fine Art at the Department of Art and Humanities, University Campus Suffolk (2015); and a Visiting Research Fellow at the University of Leeds (2017).

Legacy and Historical Significance

With over 200 works held in major international collections – including the V&A;, Museum der Moderne Salzburg, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Musée de Louvain la Neuve, and the National Galleries of Scotland – Robert Priseman has established himself as a significant voice in contemporary British art. His willingness to confront difficult subjects, combined with his dedication to supporting other artists and fostering critical dialogue, ensures his lasting impact on the artistic landscape.