Rose Wylie: The octogenarian artist inspired by wartime memories, biscuits, and Tarantino

Entitled Quack Quack, the show presents paintings from the 1990s to the present, including a new group of works inspired by London’s Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens; near where the artist lived in Bayswater during the Blirt. Memories of that time have directly informed one piece; which navigates the area through its dogs, duck, and the quietly picturesque Serpentine lake. The gentle, paradisiacal qualities of this scene are marred, though, by her memories of the Spitfires and Messerschmitt planes fighting overhead. These images sit alongside pieces inspired, variously, by the strange list above; showing the mind of a brilliant and bold artist whose work well into her 80s feels as fresh and forward-thinking as ever.

“Wylie often paints through the filter of memory and impression,” says the gallery, noting that her use of text interlocutions with the works aim to “enhance facts and recollections”. The artists unusual collage-like technique of overlaying new pieces of canvas over images serves a similar function. It adds: “Instilled with wit, Wylie’s paintings are confident, animated and energetic, proposing new perspectives on the world and the plethora of images that make up our collective cultural memory.”

Rose Wylie, Quack Quack, runs until 11 February 2018 at the Serpentine Sackler Gallery, London.