Manifesto at ACMI

On Monday I spent a great few hours at ACMI experiencing the wonderful show MANIFESTO by Julian Rosefeldt.

Cate Blanchett recites a series of manifestos blended and incorporated into a series of short films where she plays different characters. The thirteen short films screened simultaneously around the room  are meant to encourage the viewer to question the role of art in society. It is an ambitious and striking work. Cate Blanchett is astonishing in her range of character performances.

It is certainly worth seeing. And it is free admission. 

Love ACMI!!!!!

Virtual Reality at NGV

I have been wanting to get a better understanding virtual reality.

The exhibition at the NGV by  Jess Johnson called Enter the Wurm Haus  provided the opportunity.

 Ixian Gate is the  name of the virtual reality component of the exhibition. 

I put on a headset and was absolutely astonished by the experience which is hard to describe.

From the catalogue:  Using Oculus Rift technology visitors are submerged in an altered reality, with the walls of the exhibition creating an additional layer through geometric patterning, visual motifs and a suite of drawings. 

But it is more than that!

Andy Warhol & Ai Weiwei at NGV

Yesterday I spent most of the day at  the NGV. The exhibition of works by Ai Weiwei and Andy Warhol far exceeded my expectations. We had a well informed and interesting guide, and then we went back for a longer look.  It was the first time I had seen so much work by Ai Weiwei.

Both artists were astute critics of their societies. Great food for thought with regard to the role of artist as commentator and observer.

and finally ... lots of merchandising

Exhibition opening

I have spent the last few days labelling my paintings and generally getting ready for my exhibition.

Delivering the works tomorrow - it will be open to the public from Wednesday.

If you are in the city at 6pm on Thursday 17th Dec call in for a drink and help me celebrate the opening. 

Otherwise call in before it closes on Jan 13th

Last class at Painting Maribyrnong

Last week was our last class with Graeme Drendal. It has been a great year and I finished up with some unstructured drawing