Derek Carruthers (1935–2021) Untitled 2002 Original Watercolour | Modern British Art

This original watercolour, Untitled (Suspended Artists’ Mannequins) and signed and dated December 2002, is by the British artist Derek Carruthers (1935–2021). The composition presents a dynamic arrangement of articulated artists’ mannequins shown interacting through balance, suspension and mutual support.

At the left stands a larger, unpatterned mannequin figure, grounded and upright, appearing to guide or stabilise a group of smaller, patterned mannequins. These figures are shown inverted and elevated, their limbs interlinked as they hang and pivot in mid-air. The patterned surfaces—decorated with stars, dots and geometric motifs—introduce visual differentiation while maintaining the figures’ anonymous, symbolic character.

The composition emphasises tension and equilibrium, with gravity-defying poses counterbalanced by careful structural logic. Executed in watercolour with fine linework and softly modulated colour, the work demonstrates Carruthers’ assured handling of complex spatial relationships. The atmospheric ground enhances depth and theatricality, framing the figures within a controlled, abstracted environment.

By 2002, Derek Carruthers had long established the articulated artists’ mannequin as a central element of his visual language. Initially used as a pedagogical aid during his career as Head of Art at Durham University, the mannequin became a powerful metaphor in his mature work, representing humanity reduced to structure, movement and system.

Carruthers employed these forms to explore themes of cooperation, dependency and collective action. The absence of facial features or individual identity allows the viewer to focus on relational dynamics rather than narrative specificity. His approach aligns with broader Modern British concerns with order and abstraction, and reflects intellectual affinities with contemporaries such as Victor Pasmore.

Purchased from the artist’s estate.

Dealer’s Note

This work is a particularly engaging example of Carruthers’ early-2000s output, combining physical dynamism with conceptual clarity. The suspended figures and patterned surfaces introduce a playful yet disciplined exploration of balance and cooperation. Signed and precisely dated, it represents a resolved and confident statement within his late figurative practice.

Condition Report

Great condition

Purchased from the artist’s estate.

Measurement

Height:        82 cm   /     32.28 inches (with mount)

Width:         61 cm   /      24.01 inches (with mount)

Height:        71 cm   /      27.95 inches (without mount)

Width:         50 cm   /     19.86 inches (without mount)