36" x 24" / 91 x 61 cms
 
Oil on Canvas
 
Ivon Hitchen’s influence has been evident in many of Kenneth’s more abstract works over the decades and is again here, where the subject matter sits closely with others in this exhibition, but the treatment is very different. Webb sees this approach as 'evoking the emotion inherent in the scene over the literal form'. For Webb, painting this was an exciting discovery of shape and pattern, where his use of colour prevails over tone to achieve a stronger, enduring impact.  
 
Kenneth has admired the work of Ivon Hitchens since the early years of his studies and his influence can be seen throughout his work. The two first met at Hitchens’ 80th birthday party in 1973. A firm friendship was formed and both men would often meet and share their painting experiences, with Kenneth introducing Hitchens to the experimental aspects afforded by the use of acrylic paints. Hitchens and Kenneth shared areas of commonality within their artistic approaches; their paintings were neither entirely abstract nor completely figurative and the immediate landscape of their surroundings was integral to their creativity.