Ken Currie

Private Collection

There is some time staining to the paper. The pater has been distressed and rubbed in places intentionally by the artist during its creation. Well presented in a dark wooden frame. Glazed and ready to hang. unexamined out of frame.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

In the mid-1980s, Ken Currie returned to creating portraits in charcoal. Focusing on the tonal and linear qualities of the medium, Currie sought to further his visual inquiry into the human condition, producing works that he believed would promote real social change.

In Howl with the Wolves, Currie’s depiction of a protest march constructs a narrative of light and darkness. A solitary lamp illuminates a central gathering of figures, defining their facial features and clenched fists, whilst a crescent moon in the background reveals a sea of figures to the rear.  The shape of the light serves as a compositional device, drawing the viewer to the central figure around whom the others seem gathered. 

In drawing attention to light or a lack thereof, Currie comments on the lack of hope for the Scottish working class in the late twentieth century. The choice of charcoal as medium and the lack of colour serve to heighten this impact. This colossal work reflects the ambition of the New Glasgow Boys to focus intently upon the human figure, emphasizing both the physical muscularity and inherent fragility of man.