Allen Jones RA 1937

An artist that has caused more controversy than most is Allen Jones RA. I first came across his work sometime in the 1960's. They are called 'forniphilia' in other words his makes his sculpture from the female form into furniture. His most celebrated pieces entitled hatstand, table and chair. Initially they did cause a sensation, perhaps that was intended, but now they appear prosaic and dull, as if from a past age. They have not worn well in the ensuing passage of time. His drawings and pictures are much more enlightening. They generally contain women in one one pose or another, but they are not dated, but have an aliveness and presence about them. Some are of parties with men and women chatting to each other as if in normal conversation. His last piece at the current exhibition at The Royal Academy until 25 January 2015 is of a wooden sofa/deckchair that has an erect penis at the centre - he is still trying to be controversial.