PIERMARQ* is pleased to present an exhibition of new work by UK born, New York based artist, Xavier Baxter. The exhibition will be on view from 19 March to 11 April 2026, with an opening reception on Thursday 19 March from 6–8 PM.
Influenced by artists who have forged their own unique styles, Xavier draws inspiration from figures such as Auerbach, with his thick impasto; Kiefer, who pours molten metal; Bram Bogart, who mixes marble dust into paint; Dubuffet, known for his unconventional mud mixtures; and Jenny Saville, celebrated for her lavish application of paint. These influences drive Xavier to push the boundaries of his own work, constantly striving to replicate and build upon the emotions he experiences in the studio.
“Every mark I make on a painting is like the first. It must be created with freedom, energy, and without hesitation. I use scrapers, pallet knives, various brushes, and even my hands to smear paint, creating actions and movements that surprise me, forcing me to respond and solve the challenges that arise. Each painting develops its own identity and personality as I channel my energy into it. When I paint, I immerse myself fully, often listening to loud music—rock, rap, grime—getting lost in the whirlwind of paint, noise, mess, and madness. It’s crucial for my work to convey my soul and emotion, to radiate vitality. I want my paintings to grab you from a distance and pull you in closer, where you lose yourself in the gestures and the paint. My goal is to create rhythms in the painting that allow the eye to roam freely, yet always find something new with each viewing,” says Xavier Baxter in September 2023.
Xavier’s compositional approach is fueled by a deep study of both classical and contemporary art. His figurative poses draw inspiration from old masters like Delacroix, Rubens, and Titian. He enjoys examining historical paintings, focusing on the interactions between the characters, particularly their expressive postures, and even drawing ideas from the least significant background figures. In his work, the figures often dominate the canvas, with a cumulative depth that blurs the lines between foreground and background. These larger-than-life figures command the space with power and presence, yet remain universally relatable, engaging viewers in a shared journey. The beauty of the paint captivates, allowing viewers to create their own narratives as they immerse themselves in the richness of the material. Xavier's challenge is to ensure that these figures not only fill the space they occupy but do so with the sheer joy of painting.