SPACE 3: GROUP SHOW
Creature Creature, Jason Parker & Luke Rion
Exhibition dates. 2 - 13 March, 2022
Opening Reception : Thur 3 March 2022, 6:00 - 8.30pm.
ARTEFACTS
@creaturecreaturestudios
@jasonparkerart
@lukerion_
ARTEFACTS is a show displaying a selection of past works by artists: Creature Creature, Jason Parker and Luke Rion.
Part retrospective, and part stockroom archives with a few new surprises. This is a glimpse into where they have been, and alludes to where they are heading, by these prolific Melbourne artists.
Exhibition view
Interview with artist: Creature Creature
1. How do your works combine influences from the East and West?
Our work is very flat, with calligraphic line-work, a style inspired by traditional Eastern art, but we aim to make it look contemporary and original, combining our western perspective due to our upbringing in Australia and New Zealand. When choosing our subject matter we look to both Eastern and Western mythology and symbolism especially in our choice of animals from koi fish to wolves. We want our work to be a blend of this contrast and diversity, to represent the two of us, as a partnership.
2. What are some of the challenges working with wood as opposed to more traditional canvases?
The only challenge that comes to mind with wood is the weight of it if working large scale, also warping can be an issue if not treated properly. We find wood to be a very forgiving surface to work on. You can use sandpaper to knock back elements and the texture of wood grain contrasts against flat shapes.
Q & Photography : BLACKCAT GALLERY & Isabella Imperatore
Interview with artist: Jason Parker
1. Your paintings look as if they are glitching, can you talk about this stylistic choice and what it conveys?
I’m trying to subtly touch on humanity’s ever increasing merge with technology. In an abstract sense we are already cyborgs.
It’s only a matter of time before this is actually the case.
2. What are some of the challenges when trying to blend traditional portraiture with such a dreamlike aesthetic?
I have to remind myself that the portrait is merely a vehicle to communicate a mood. If I get too caught up in only trying to capture likeness this can end up being detrimental to the overall atmosphere of the painting.
Q & Photography : BLACKCAT GALLERY & Isabella Imperatore
Interview with artist: Luke Rion
1. Your works appear to have a nostalgic quality, where does this stem from?
I quite commonly explore narrative themes within my work. I feel through the process of building the concept and executing it I become so familiar with the narrative that it feels as if I'm looking into the past, almost as if the work were a memory or snapshot. The process in which I paint these works also serves this concept of nostalgia. Through the dark to light quality of vignetting the pieces toward a focal point in the work, it implies a visual representation of how our memories act a bit hazy on the outskirts with a single point of focus that can be articulated.
2. Can you talk about your use of colour and how you came to use such a distinct colour palette?
I always need to change my palette in order to re- energise my process and focus and keep me on my toes. I love sitting in one hue and slowly pushing toward a second and exploring the greys that sit between the two. It can be quite spontaneous and rewarding. I just take my time and see where it goes.
Q & Photography : Isabella Imperatore & BLACKCAT Gallery