Art and Spirituality -- Diana Al Hadid

Record of a Mortal Universe 2007 mixed media


Self Melt 2008- mixed media


The Tower of Infinite Problems 2008- mixed media

The imagery of the spiritual, transcends the materials of an artwork. It provides a simple thematic understanding and universal issue. I chose the work of Diana Al Hadid to demonstrate the power of the spiritual motif, of even fantastical excursion. These are serious glimpses of heavenly austerity and the still aura of sanctity, and ideas of chalice. Though Al Hadid often deals with expressionistic mores, the work is a positive reinforcement and challenge of principals.

Found in the work are references belonging to both Christian and Islamic fable,
such as the story of the Tower of Babylon, which is a prominent image throughout the work.

www.al-hadid.wsdia.com

Fresh: Contemporary Baskets and Basketry

The other day I went to At the Vanishing Point in King Street Newtown to see an exhibition called "Fresh: Contemporary Baskets and Basketry". Several artists had created works using traditional techniques of weaving from natural and recycled materials. Although the finished products of some of the traditional styles of basketry appear to be flimsy and breakable, we realise that they are strong and long-lasting compared to many modern everyday items. Some of the works are made from contemporary recycled materials such as electric cables, chip packets and other plastics. These works still maintain organic and life-like forms reminiscent of bright sea creatures/plants. Curator of the exhibition Peter Williamson said, "The continuation of the ancient tradition of basketry has great appeal for me in a society such as ours where it is possible to simply purchase anything we want on demand."

Quoted from Peter Williamson's curatorial statement sent via email from At the Vanishing Point.

White Rabbit Gallery

I went to the White Rabbit Gallery last week and was surprised how good it was. It's four floors of Chinese contemporary art, a large amount of which is sculpture and installation. For those who haven't been there yet it's worth a visit.

Gallery Location
30 Balfour St Chippendale

http://www.whiterabbitcollection.org/modules/about/