Artist Peter Sedgley, founder of Space Studios, dies aged 94 as tributes pour in

Peter Sedgley, a pioneer of kinetic and optical art, was renowned for his ethereal use of color and movement, which challenged conventional wisdom and redefined visual perceptions.

According to the studio, artist Peter Sedgley, who founded Space Studios in the 1960s with Bridget Riley, passed away at the age of 94. The workspace, which is London’s oldest continuously operating art studio, was established in 1968 by Sedgley, who is renowned for his kinetic and optical art.

Announcing Sedgley’s death on March 17, Space said: “Peter Sedgley was an artist who looked at the world with a particular kind of social conscience. “He imagined the site of the artist’s studio as one of unbounded imagination – a prospective seat for social, political and economic change. Sedgley was a very specific kind of person, adventurous, seemingly not afraid of risk, but also a deep thinker.

After all, he pursued largely independently of his intricate incandescent paintings, which over time developed into sculptures. He was constantly creating new things. Additionally, he established an Art Information Registry to help members like German-British painter Frank Auerbach and singer David Bowie find locations to exhibit, perform, sell, and be commissioned.

After serving in the army and having a brief architectural career, Sedgley decided to pursue an artistic career. His first significant solo exhibition was held in 1965 at the London McRoberts and Tunnard Gallery. It ran out, and several pieces were displayed in prestigious galleries like Tate Britain.

His most well-known films include Blue Pulse, Color Cycle, Suspense, and Glide. The artist, who was born in London until well into his 90s, held a retrospective of his work at the Redfern Gallery in London in November of last year, honoring his late wife Inge, who he had two children with.

According to the studio, “Space continues to be the oldest continuously operating artist studios in London today because of Peter’s pioneering vision.” Following the news that he passed away at the age of 94, the artist and co-founder of Space Studios has received much fanfare and admiration.

“Peter Sedgley was a true pioneer in kinetic and optical art. One fan wrote on social media that his work was mesmerizing, full of energy, and movement. “He altered the way we perceive and experience art.”

A further tribute read, “A terrible loss to the art world.” He not only created incredible artwork, but he also made an incredible commitment to helping other artists through Space Studios. His legacy will continue to be felt by the many artists he has assisted over the years.

Sedgley’s lifelong commitment to innovation and his influence on future generations of creatives received praise. His generosity and gift for others was unmatched, and his art was innovative. Truly a legend. One admirer remarked on Peter Sedgley’s influence, noting that he had created a “space for artists” figuratively beyond his own work. His contribution to the creative industry will never be forgotten.

Source: Mirror