What a face! This grimacing bust by Nicolas Party might seem entirely contemporary, but it takes inspiration from the classical form. While the downturned yawn and exclamatory eyebrows are akin to a theatrical mask, the bright colours reference the somewhat forgotten practice of Polychrome. First discovered in Ancient Greece, the art of decorating wooden and marble sculptures in vivid colours was once commonplace, but has since been supplanted by the idea that ancient statuary was muted and monochrome. Party’s 3D-rendered versions are currently on show at The Modern Institute in Glasgow (until 24 August), where they are surrounded by equally bright walls, arches and plinths that make these busts feel right at home.
