(Above) Dawn and Evening Star (Olmec Maya series) (1982). Oil on canvas. © Aubrey Williams Estate

Exhibition: Aubrey Williams – Now and Coming Time, October Gallery, London, until April 3rd 2010

Guyanese artist Aubrey Williams focused his work on the environment and its potential destruction. Combining the abstract with the representative through extensive travels between England, Guyana, Jamaica and Florida, he was particularly inspired by his studies of historic Central and South American cultures.

He spent two years living among the indigenous Warrau people of Guyana, where his interest in the environment and belief that art could be a vehicle for his expression were sparked.

Fears of environmental catastrophe were at the forefront of Williams’ art. "We have done colossal ecological damage," he warned, calling pollution "beyond our ability to reverse."

"Cosmic rays' bombardment is growing and we have no shield against its harmful effects.All these anxieties inform my work all the time. My work is only important when people realise these things from it."

His work has diverse influences, ranging from ancient Maya and Warrau imagery to science fiction and the symphonies of Russian composer Dimitri Shostakovich.

A sister exhibition of Williams' art at the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool continues until April 11 2010.

Open 12.30pm-5.30pm (by appointment only on Friday).