Sensitive Dependence

This collection of paintings by artist Benedict Keeley explores the phenomenon of Chaos. The term ‘chaos’ is commonly considered to be synonymous with randomness or disorder, but since the advent of fractal mathematics and vastly improved computing power, the study of chaos has led to the discovery that there is order underlying the randomness in living systems.

‘This balance of order and randomness fascinates me. I explore this balance within my work by starting a canvas very randomly, with no preconceived ideas and spontaneous mark making. At some point a configuration of form and colour arises with the potential for order to be introduced. This order often takes the form of figurative or geometric elements. This balance of randomness and order in the natural world is what gives rise to novelty. This novelty is what I aim to achieve in my work.
These underlying patterns of order, which often take the form of fractal patterns (patterns which are ‘self-similar’ at every scale) have led to a better understanding of the interconnectedness of all phenomena. Fractal patterns can be seen operating in many areas of life which appear completely unrelated, such as biology and finance, computing and medicine, sociology and architecture. Within my work I seek to connect disparate elements as well, from the use of a wide array of materials and mark-making methods, to combining different genres within a single work, such as abstract, landscape and still life.
I am drawn to this subject matter because it speaks of unity despite the complexity of life. As humans, our lives are nested within this vast interconnected system. A sense of unity is needed today, more than ever.’