CHRISTOPHER TÓTH

AMUSE BOUCHE

As an artist, I have always been driven by my passion for materiality, structure and the creative process. In this latest body of work, I have drawn upon my diverse background as a student architect, head chef, pastry chef, and my years of experience working in the building trade to create a series of paintings that are a testament to my exploration of form and materials. 

The use of Italian cotton and linen fabrics, Australian hardwood frames and sculptural structures, reflects my desire to work with materials that have both aesthetic and structural value. These materials are carefully selected for their unique qualities and bring a sense of materiality and weight to the paintings, which is further emphasised by the use of High gloss/matte architectural coatings. 

As a former head chef, I bring the same principles of farm-to-table cooking into my art. I carefully select each material, just as I would choose the freshest ingredients, and allow them to take centre stage in their raw, natural form. The combination of these materials creates a visual feast that engages the viewer on both an emotional and sensory level. My sculptural paintings are not just objects to be looked at, but they are designed to be experienced through touch, sight, and sound. 

My focus on dynamic finishes is a nod to my years as a pastry chef, where I became captivated by the unique colors and reflective qualities of patisserie items. This interest in gloss and shine is a recurring theme throughout my work, as I explore the way light and colour interact with different materials. 

Additionally through my work as a head chef and pastry chef, I have developed an appreciation for the art of layering, and this is evident in the paintings as I layer and build up the surfaces, creating a sense of depth and complexity. I also draw upon my experiences in the building trade, where I gained an understanding of how different materials can interact with each other and create a sense of balance and stability. 

With these paintings, I hope to challenge the viewer's perception of materials, and to encourage them to consider the role that materials play in shaping our experiences of the world around us. Through my use of materials, I aim to create works that are not only visually engaging, but also physically and emotionally immersive. 

This body of work is a reflection of my life experiences and a celebration of the creative process. Through my use of materials and my exploration of form, I aim to create paintings that are both aesthetically beautiful and thought-provoking, inviting the viewer to consider the role of materials in shaping our world. 

Words by Christophér Toth