The British artist Alan Uglow (1941–2011), who was based in New York from 1969, was described by art critic Roberta Smith as “a painter’s painter” — an artist held in high regard within the art world. His practice is characterised by a pared-down, geometric visual language in which colour fields, proportions and surface play a central role.

The auction work Memorial broken promises (1982–1983) is distinguished by a striking division between red and black. The clearly defined colour fields create a tension between balance and dynamism, while the smaller rectangular forms along the left edge introduce rhythm and movement. The painting can be understood in the context of Uglow’s sustained exploration of colour, structure and the organisation of the picture plane.

After establishing himself in New York, Uglow exhibited at Mary Boone Gallery in 1978. In 1983, he held an exhibition at Galerie Nordenhake in Malmö, which became an important part of his exhibition history in Sweden.

Uglow’s works are represented in international museum collections, including the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, the Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, Kunstmuseum Den Haag and the Cincinnati Art Museum. Moderna Museet in Stockholm also holds his painting Standard III (1993) in its collection.