Document Actions
Material Girls Pursue Pleasure in Heathcote Exhibition
Five emerging female artists have joined forces to present a new exhibition titled Material Pleasure at Heathcote Museum and Gallery from 29 February to 6 April 2008.
Recent Central TAFE arts school graduates Gemma Dodd, Natalie Williamson, Mandy Harwood, Melissa Carey and Katie Martin will display new works that take a playful and interesting look at the theme of materiality in art.
Curator Soula Veyradier said each artist approached the theme from a different perspective and used a different medium. “The result is an extremely varied and imaginative exhibition based on each artist’s notion of materiality,” she said.
Harwood’s works includes an oversized chandelier made entirely from black felt. Usually a symbol for wealth and refinement, this chandelier challenges opulence by taking away the light and sparkle and using a traditionally nurturing and humble material.
Dodd draws her inspiration from under the bed and carpet, using microscopic images of dust to create works that muse over the idea of materialism, the fantasy home, woman, and lifestyle while Williamson has created a range of extremely lush floral textile pieces using fake flowers and plants.
Martin reflects upon the transition between rural and urban Australia, using different materials that she then prints and paints over with landscapes and imagery from her experiences. Carey uses photography, drawing and print on gauzy fabric and paper to express a yearning for the inner child and for higher spiritual ideas.
Ms Veyradier said Central TAFE principal lecturer and sculptor Tony Jones would open the exhibition while renowned Fremantle artist Sue Flavel had written the catalogue essay.
To help cover the costs for the catalogue production, a fundraising gig will be held at Mojos Bar in Fremantle on Wednesday, 13 February. The line-up includes Sir Thomas, The Killer Grapes, Offbeat Antics and Good Little Fox. The cost is $7. For more information phone Katie Martin on 0406 667 053.
The artists wish to acknowledge the fantastic support that they have received from local businesses, including Oakover Winery and Little Creatures Brewery, Picton Press and the Left Bank Café Bar Restaurant.
Heathcote Museum and Gallery is at Swan House in Duncraig Road, Applecross. Open hours are 10.00am to 3.00pm, Tuesday to Friday, and 11.00am to 3.00pm on weekends. Phone 9364 5666.