SPACE 2: JEROME RUSH
Exhibition dates. 6 - 17 Sep - 2023
Opening Reception : Thursday 7 Sep 2023, 6:00 - 8.30pm
Holding up the Sky
Holding up the Sky aims to reflect upon the juxtaposition between nature and man-made forms, and the importance for humankind to become in touch with their essential, natural selves. The images contrast the smooth flowing organic forms of the eucalypt with the geometric, machine made, architectural constructions of the buildings.
The magpie, as a major focus in the exhibition acts as a symbol of defiance against the ‘progress’ of humankind. The magpie is a beast that when treated inappropriately will swoop and peck at its targets. But when treated appropriately this intelligent cognisant bird will be a willing and able partner in a celebration of the world we live.
At the end of 2020 , like many of us, I was struggling emotionally and finding it difficult to come to terms with what was important to me. During this time, which was obviously often spent in isolation, I found respite in my relationship with the Magpies that lived in the area. The interactions I had with them would make me more mindful in my daily rituals and tapped me into the greater consciousness of the natural world. At first, I just sat with the birds, but then I began recording and drawing my observations. Initially the drawing of the magpies was a way of channelling into a mindful creative process, it later became almost an obsessive tribute to them as a beast.
The birds fill the room as one off screen-prints in white. The Perspex they are screen printed on, not only acts as a contrast to the landscapes and their wooden surfaces, but also as a mirror; allowing the viewer to reflect upon themselves and the role they play within the planet.
Rush is an artist musician from Melbourne Australia.
Having completed a TOP at Huntingdale tech and a Bachelor of Fine Art majoring in printmaking at VCA, he has been actively involved in the creative world. Whether it be in his crazy, confronting puppet shows called Velvet Tongue (which was featured on television numerous times), working commercially as an illustrator or animator, the creation of graphic novels and children’s books, partaking in artists in residence programs, curating big group art/music showcases, teaching art or playing music, Rush has always found a way to stay actively engaged creatively.
