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The (unofficial) launch of a new gallery brings a buzz to the otherwise quieter Marshall Street. The aptly named Chapter One is the first venture of this kind for its four directors Adam Tiger, Al Herring, Luc Le Corre and Tim Head, whose passion for art has been an impetus to this event. It’s been a year and a half in the making and “it is a labour of love”, I am informed. The gallery is small, the smell of fresh paint reminds me of its newness. A brief chat with Al Herring unravels the dark history of the space as he tells me that the land in which the building stands on was used to bury victims of the plague so when their building work was in progress remains of a victim was dug up… delightful! 

Disgruntled with an art scene so long dominated by the styling of Banksy, the directors wanted to stray away from the clichés and bring focus to exciting artists who do not use stencils but actually utilise their drawing and painting skills to create edgy artwork. The first exhibition, ‘Genesis’, showcases the talents of contemporary (mostly European) artists Stefan Marx, Erosie, Merijn Hos, Michael Swaney, Mudwig Dans and Samuel Francois. It is an eclectic and colourful collection of work of artists who have a distinct style very different from the others.  

Stefan Marx, whose painting sold within an hour of the opening, is a personal favourite. His work translates really well into print too, as seen on the flyer for ‘Genesis’- it almost looks 3D with the diamond shapes emerging like a pop-up book. Samuel Francois has a playful approach to his artwork as he compiles different images to create funny collages, which look much like a hallucination. Merijn Hos stands out in his surrealist stance. His collection includes colourful paintings and drawings of Indian ink on white paper. The drawings have such intricate designs- you really have to applaud the discipline and patience of this artist. Michael Swaney’s work also includes collages and some sketches. Mudwig Danse uses images as well as sketches and follows the graphic design tradition. Erosie’s use of dark colours and erratic lines in the paintings is eye catching and cathartic. 

This group exhibition definitely has many fascinating work, well worth going to view. However, I was left unsatisfied at how little you get to see of one artist because their work is so interesting and the space limiting, but ‘Genesis’ does a great job in pushing these artists to the forefront of contemporary art scene in London. 

Photos from the opening night taken by Addie Chinn.

‘Genesis’ is at Chapter One, 1-30 October

33 Marshall Street, W1F 7ET 

Silvi Subba