Offering a terrific platform for local artists, Stantonbury Gallery is on a roll, and the tide of talent making great use of its space continues this coming week, with the unveiling of a show by Christine Gallagher.
Her thought-provoking creations tackle the big, often taboo subjects of life and death.
“My work, whilst appearing primarily to allude to death, aims to be a contemplation on life,” Christine says.
“I attempt to highlight the delicate balance between life and death and therefore throw the transient nature of our existence into sharp relief.”
She says her work is inspired by natural forms, and she breaths new life into death – using the remains of small creatures, which are sometimes found, sometimes bought, as this piece, Keys Turn (above).
A salvaged plywood disc set for landfill has been used and a mix of Jackdaw and Crow feet – obtained through a taxidermist – painted.
The solo show of mixed media work is called Transient Nature.
Other pieces have taken inspiration from the skeleton of a headless mouse, a dead Jackdaw, and the breastbone of a sea bird.
“There is an undercurrent of pathos present in my work, which I feel conveys a certain sensibility and reflects our pre-occupation with the need to find meaning in our lives before facing the inevitability of death.
“I am interested in parallels and the subtle interplay between what we perceive as ugly or beautiful, weak or strong, important or unimportant.”
Not all efforts feature expired creatures, mind you, as you'll learn if you pop in for a look.
Christine's show begins on Monday (Feb 22) and runs through to March 13. Admission is free.
“The imagery is certainly challenging but hopefully beauty can be found in the fragility of its spirit.”
In related news, Christine's piece, Flown has spent the past couple of weeks under the spotlight at London's Mall Galleries, having been selected as part of the Columbia Threadneedle Prize exhibition.
Click across to www.christinegallagherartist.com for more.
