|
I think everyone wants to be involved in the world of art and culture in one way or another – unfortunately for me I am rather creepy when I dance, couldn’t ever pen a song, and am never asked to join family games of pictionary because, well… I’m just plain rubbish at drawing. It’s for these reasons that I go to exhibitions and gigs – to at least be able to enjoy the product of someone else’s genius. It is refreshing however, when an artist decides to use people off the street as inspiration for his/her creations.
One such artist who is, quite literally, drawing on current fashion and trends for his latest exhibition, is Ryan L Foote. Set in one of the most regal and impressive retail spaces in Melbourne, Foote is welcoming passers by into his world where you are encouraged to be photographed in front of an angled gold mirror. There, it’s time to strike a pose – there’s nothing to it. The elements and trends which inspire him will ultimately become the artwork that adorns the walls. Foote then, from these photographs, creates intricate drawings upon golden panels which serve as reflective blank canvases, which will gradually evolve over the life of the exhibition. It’s this marriage of style and fashion with that of contemporary art which makes his intricate and detailed etchings so interesting. These panels, at first glance seem to be beautiful patterns, however at closer inspection, you might find yourself looking at your own silhouette... Complimenting these pieces, is the most imposing installation of all – a golden catwalk, which appears to have fallen from where it once hung suspended, to the rough concrete floor below.
What most strikes me is the way clothing that represents a persons personality, style and background makes its way onto the same canvas as someone so different… where local trends merge together to create one cohesive story.
I read once that chicks dig musicians because of some subconscious desire for someone to write a song about them. Hey, it worked for Pattie Boyd (twice) – so maybe this is the art equivalent – trying to hang around the artist long enough until he finally picks you as his muse and asks to ‘draw’ you. If you hurry, you might get to take part before the exhibition ends. The good news is that the artwork will remain on display over the coming weeks… so have a look and see if you can find someone you know.
Exquisite Boundaries is on display at 271 Collins St Melbourne.
To view/purchase the completed artworks and to stay up to date as the exhibition progresses go to RyanLFoote.com for more details.
|
Comment...
