John Wells: the fragile cell

John Wells (born 1907) has been long associated with the artists of St Ives, playing an important role in establishing the town as a leading centre in modern art in the post-war years through his close friendship with Ben Nicholson, Babara Hepworth and other colleagues. This publication accompanies the first exhibition since 1960 to present a thorough study of his work. It will focus on some of the key aspects of the philosophy of his painting. His work links his interest in geometric systems of proportion and musical rhythms with his personal responses to the specific landscapes of west Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.