This exhibition explores a curious alchemy of fairytale whimsy and dark dystopia as we attempt to make creative and poetic sense of this chaotic, absurd world we all now stumble through. As we weave a story with images and objects, expect to see some hybrid animals, childlike explorers, archetypal heroes and villains, totem symbols, and a little dose of nature as we apply some ‘spiritual kintsugi’ to the graceful degradation. Through our art, we attempt to connect with our audience via universal themes of hope, grief, loss, re-wilding and discovery.
Ben is a classically trained visual artist and designer. He has worked in and taught many art forms over the last 25 years. First and foremost, his work aims to connect with people through the exploration of universal narratives that resonate with all of us. His 2 dimensional works are often naturalistic figure studies, exploring the human form through traditional life drawing, often using layers of wet and dry media. The 3 dimensional pieces are more intimate and whimsical, combining wood, stone, resin and found objects.
Eliza is a practicing artist, creative arts therapist and teacher using her many years of study and practice to facilitate healing in others. Eliza has been obsessed with fairytales since childhood, and they have continued to fascinate and inspire her throughout her life. They are a key theme in her artwork, and she enjoys the juxtaposition of childhood naivety and innocence next to the dark and macabre. She works primarily in mixed media and assemblage using found objects.
Up Gallery acknowledges the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation, who are the Traditional Custodians of the land upon which we gather to share art and creative community,. We acknowledge Aboriginal connection to creative practice on these lands for more than 65,000 years and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.
Up Gallery is an artists run initiative as a not for profit association UP ARTISANS INC. A0122250U ABN 53452638663