About
Izatt Shortman (b. 2003) stages inherent interactions between conceived figures. He necessitates interpretive response through the personal theory that heavy abstraction of figures will always lead to reciprocal interaction, especially in dyadic and triadic compositions.
The validity of his theory is substantiated primarily in the heads of the subjected figures. Inclusion of heads confers clarity to the existence of the forms, providing the viewer with conceptual orientation. The heads impart bodily notation to surrounding shapes, prompting subjective understanding of the rest of the figure within the constraints of the forms. The absence of facial detail compels the depicted figures to interact physically, with human instinct suggesting that the figurative forms must interact if there is no evidence that they are not.
His work utilises neutrally toned, substantial materials that embody tactile presence, balancing subtlety with physical weight to cultivate a sense of restrained solidity. Unglazed ceramics, unpolished metals, concrete and natural stone all frame his compositions to balance the innate presence of the figures with a rejection of intentional decoration.
His works depict both senses of aware individuality and mutual identity concurrently, extracting the nature of the human figure into interpretable abstractions of implied dialogues. Each viewer is invited to relate to and respond to the figures in a completely personal manner, deriving context and narrative from unique experiences, memories and intentions.
Exhibitions:
2025 SUMMIX. Centrespace Gallery, Bristol.
2025 Bath Spa University Degree Show 2025. Locksbrook Campus, Bath.
2024 RECOLLECTION. Bath Artist’s Studios, Bath.
2024 Izatt Shortman, Harry Wilkins. Michael Pennie Gallery, Bath.
2023 From a Box to a Cube. Walcot Chapel, Bath.
Essays:
2025 What Makes a Sculpture a Sculpture?
Education:
2022-2025 Bath Spa University - BA (Hons) Fine Art.
2024 Staatliche Akademie Der Bildenden Künste Stuttgart (ABK Stuttgart) - Fine Art.
2020-2022 Bath College - BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design.