Oliver Scarlin

Olive Scarlin (b. 1987, Cape Town, South Africa) is a distinguished artist who creates deeply evocative observation-based paintings and ceramics. Scarlin's artistic practice is characterized by a focus on themes of queer intimacy, memory and longing. His work, primarily based on observation, explores the nuances of perception through form and colour. Scarlin's functional ceramic objects often feature in his still-life compositions, creating a dialogue between his painting and sculptures.

Scarlin's art is designed to evoke an intimate emotional response, capturing the mundane and the extraordinary in equal measure. His educational journey includes a BA in Applied Design from the Stellenbosch Academy of Design & Photography, a B.A. Hons in Illustration from the University of Stellenbosch, and a three-year painting program at the Florence Academy of Art in Italy.

His latest exhibition, Chaos Lilies, invited viewers to explore the complexities of selfhood, queerness, and community. The exhibition featured a collection of portraits and still lifes that captured moments of connection against the backdrop of contemporary life. Scarlin’s use of recurring symbols, such as a penny whistle and a kitchen knife, evokes nostalgia and shared experiences, while his depiction of water with ripples and reflections adds layers of personal and social meaning. His color palette, dominated by pink, green, turquoise, and purple, creates a visually striking and imaginative atmosphere.

Since returning to Cape Town in 2016, Scarlin has held six solo exhibitions and participated in numerous group shows. His work has been featured in key galleries and museums, including Whatiftheworld and Glen Carlou Gallery. Scarlin continues to make significant contributions to contemporary South African art, exploring the intricate tapestry of human emotions and stories through his unique artistic lens.

His work is made from observation, exploring themes of queer intimacy - both domestic and communal - through figurative, still-life and ceramic pieces.