1998

In the process of deconstructing myself as an artist on the path to abstraction, I choose the Rose symbol both of passion and religious purity to be the talisman for my new series of paintings and sculptures. In limiting my subject matter I was able to experiment in color juxtapositions, painting techniques and carving for resin multiples.

Gabrielle Courtenay 2002

‘ Foil developed the imagery and techniques of Courtney’s earlier shows to a higher level of sophistication. Held together by a more cohesive aesthetic, the various floor and wall elements in this installation exuded a funky colorful character, mediated by the artist’s developing eye for abstract composition. Floral emblems, specifically the rose, came to the fore as a unifying symbol, repeated and reconfigured in various formats: in relief against textured picture planes and blown up into quirky three-dimensional rose shapes molded in resin. The process of assemblage and layering implicit in the production of these works indicated Courtenay’s keen will to experiment and drive to continue refining her forms and ideas. ‘

Anna Clabburn June 2002.