Variation I 1968

Ian Tyson made Variation I in 1968, and from what I can see it’s been carefully planned. It’s all about the push and pull of colour, the way the squares jostle for attention on the surface. Look closely and you’ll see how the squares create a kind of vibration, an optical buzz. The flat surface becomes animated through the careful arrangements of colours. This isn't just about repeating a pattern, it’s about creating a dynamic visual field. The green area in the centre is particularly compelling. It's a dense, concentrated zone that anchors the composition. It provides a counterpoint to the more dispersed and chaotic areas of colour. I'm reminded of Bridget Riley, especially her early black and white paintings, but Tyson brings a playful pop sensibility to the conversation. Ultimately, this piece celebrates the simple pleasure of looking and the endless possibilities of colour and form.