Orchard Tambourine B - Terry Frost

A grid of twenty-five circular motifs, this screenprint by Terry Frost explores the interaction of colour and geometric form.

Orchard Tambourine B is a significant example of the late-career output of Sir Terry Frost, a central figure in the St Ives School. This portfolio piece demonstrates his preoccupation with geometric form and the interplay of colour. The composition consists of a grid of twenty-five squares, each containing a circular motif. Frost employs a systematic approach to the arrangement, yet the variation in hue and tone across the individual cells provides a sense of rhythm and movement.

Frost often drew inspiration from the Cornish environment, translating the light and shapes of the coast into abstract visual language. In this work, the circle acts as a primary unit of expression. By layering colours within these circular forms, he creates a dialogue between the background square and the central shape. The repetition of the grid structure allows the viewer to focus on the subtle shifts in the palette, ranging from muted earth tones to high-chroma primaries. This print reflects his interest in the structural possibilities of abstraction, moving away from representational imagery to explore the pure properties of shape and pigment.

As a screenprint, the work benefits from the flat, even application of ink, which suits the geometric precision of the design. The lack of visible brushwork ensures that the focus remains on the relationship between the colours. Frost's ability to balance such a large number of individual elements into a cohesive whole is characteristic of his mature style. This piece offers a clear view into his methodology, where simple geometric components are combined to create a complex visual experience. It remains a representative work of his later period, showing his continued engagement with the formal qualities of painting and printmaking.