How do I reach to you

Tom Polo's art explores the complex dynamics of human interaction, effectively capturing the subtle nuances of exchanges between individuals. His exploration of conversation, gesture, and expression as forms of portraiture provides a deep insight into the complex layers of human connection.

Working at the intersection of abstraction and figuration, Polo skilfully blurs the boundaries between the individual and the collective, offering a profound reflection on the intricate workings of our inner worlds. His keen interest in the intimate moments of unveiling exchanges invites viewers to contemplate the delicate balance of openness and reservation in our interactions with others and ourselves.

In his piece titled "How do I reach to you," a larger-than-life figure takes on a mesmerising presence, appearing to materialise and dissolve simultaneously. The outstretched arm serves as a compelling focal point, inviting viewers to ponder its potential interpretations - a reach of desire, a protective gesture, or a performance for an audience.

Polo's gestural mark-making serves as a testament to the multifaceted nature of human movement within the space and the diverse array of individuals navigating through it. He eloquently articulates, "I was thinking about the transient nature of the corridor as a point of departure and arrival. The mark-making is energetic, experimental and diverse; I wanted this one large figure to be composed of many smaller parts, suggesting that the whole — as we know it — is often greater than the sum of its parts.”