Art And Photography

I told a group of students from Carlisle College of Art to Newcastle in November 1972 and happened upon the Ian Hamilton Finlay exhibition at the Lain Art Gallery. It was a revelation of invention, a unique artform bridging the visual and literary worlds. I came away with the small illustrated catalogue full of possibilities, tempting ideas and idioms and the beautiful booklet of fishing tallies.

This collection of essays edited by Tom Bee amuses, enlightens and tempts readers to explore the work of Ian Hamilton Finlay. Viewed through five of his collaborators the book gives the reader an insight into the working relationships that are a key part of the artist’s modus operandi.