When I was younger I searched for Utopia through art – picket fences, water lilies and tropical sunsets. A world free of fear, insecurities or criticism. As I have grown older, I no longer seek such escape, often searching out art that speaks to such darkness within.
Dark Heart: the Adelaide Biennial of Australian Art at the Art Gallery of South Australia is such an exhibition. Superbly curated, it delves into the dark history of our lucky country, and exposes the undercurrent of violence and indifference hidden beneath the blue and gold. Ex de Medici’s work The Law illustrates this dichotomy perfectly – guns and security cameras on a rich intricate backdrop of Murghal tapestry interwoven with symbols of consumerism and greed.
The Law – eX de Medici
Alex Seton – Someone died trying to have a life like mine
I loved the pairing of Alex Seton’s life jackets and Ben Quilty’s foray into the heart of darkness – a powerful political statement into our continuing inhumane treatment of those seeking asylum. Also congratulations to my dear friend Shoufay Derz whose video work Depart without return also featured. I can’t even begin to explain Fiona Hall’s installation piece Out of my tree – you just have to see it yourself.
Dark Heart reminded me is why we have filled the world with those Acadian visions from my youth. Their light and joy are a response to our darkness, and represent humanity’s collective hope for a world free of suffering and pain.
Claude Monet – Water Lilies
Sentimental? For sure. Naive? Perhaps. But at its best such art captures the sublime wonder of a world filled with love. I leave you with the story of the fire and Monet’s water lilies at MoMA:
Through the looking glass 