Since the last year (2018-2019) my main focus has been on the Civilization’s Entropy project. When working on the new mosaic works I had this theme already formed but further ideas, including producing helmets, concrete-based sculptures and a film were physically developed in conversation with a particular site – South Channel Fort Island in Port Phillip Bay. My project was a part of the first phase of Creative Occupation relating to the Island and bringing together a group of artists to respond to the site.

Three sub-theme projects of Civilization’s Entropy is the first result shown at the Creative Occupation showcase, 10-31 January 2019, The Project Space, Deakin Waterfront, Geelong (curated by Marita Batna). I am glad to now share some images and production shots of my latest body of work!

Life Support

Veneers created from the most fragile materials to push through the human boundaries. The “Helmet” acts as an allegory for emotional and physical armor/outer shell for life support in an environment naturally hostile to the unprepared. Protection to defend against hostile environments, organisms or intentions of others.

 

Standing Operating Procedure

Using a fusion of aggregates, plastics, glass, mosaic, metal and creating what would be symbols and validation of conquest of a foe. Artifacts (of today) in the future. Biases based on views with regards to racial, religious, political, intellectual, cultural references, fueled by a lack of self-awareness, fear, and guilt. Played out in a society with commercial objectives and agendas, fed through a web of tech, that in the distant past had similar but more local tribal influences.

 

Requiem Ritual

A film and images created as a visual narrative to explore the connections between nature, evolution, and exploitation within rituals. Music for the film: W. A. Mozart – Requiem.

Rituals measure, gauge and bind society by constructing a framework for cultural connections.
Traditionally – local, but with expanding networks – regional, then national, now – international.
Used as a tool by religious and civic leaders to celebrate and connect community, but also to set agendas and reinforce ideology and doctrines dictated from the past to the present.
Rituals are re-interpreted or introduced to justify actions, behaviors, thinking, moral norms and ethical, cultural, intellectual standards.
Requiem Ritual also uses the “Helmet” of the Life Support.