Untitled 1960

Editor: This is an untitled piece by John Wells. It seems to be mixed media on paper. The composition has this interesting balance between chaos and order. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Wells's abstract work, like this one, emerged in a specific historical moment. Post-war Britain saw artists grappling with new forms of expression. How do you think the social climate of the time may have influenced his move towards abstraction? Editor: I guess there was a desire to break from tradition and find new visual languages for a changed world. Does the Tate's acquisition of this piece suggest a specific role for abstract art in public collections? Curator: Absolutely. Its presence signifies the acceptance, and even celebration, of non-representational art within a public institution. The Tate actively shaped the narrative around modernism. Editor: I see. It is interesting how institutions frame art. Thank you. Curator: Indeed. Considering the context broadens the way we understand and appreciate the artwork.