John Nixon is a controversial artist whose work knowingly builds upon early 20th century avant-garde art. In this exhibition, Nixon uses the large space of the Art Museum as an architectural framework for the display of his "mini–paintings". A dynamic visual interplay is created between the works and the gallery space as a consequence of the mini-paintings' exceptional individual characteristics. The manner of their display in a 'star-like' asymmetrical constellation determines the experience and sensations of the viewer.

A wide range of materials are used to construct the mini-paintings and regardless of the material, the works are deemed paintings. The colour relationships between individual works are also important. Bright enamel colours react against each other and the white gallery walls.

In EPW: Mini-Paintings, Nixon continues his celebrated investigation of non-objective and minimal possibilities through a colourful galaxy of works, suggestive of a range of associations and meanings.

A project of the Telstra Adelaide Festival 1996 at the University of South Australia Art Museum. An essay by Christopher Dean in the Festival's visual arts catalogue accompanies this exhibition.