Light, in its many forms, has been studied by visual artists throughout the centuries and now, contemporary artists have incorporated new technologies as methods of communication. The exhibition, ‘Light Play: Ideas, Optics, Atmosphere’ will illuminate the gallery spaces at UQ Art Museum with an elaborate display of mixed media works by 21 contemporary artists. Part of the 2015 International Year of Light, ‘Light Play’s’ collection of works incorporate and celebrate light in unique and defining ways.
Divided into three sub-themes – Ideas, Optics and Atmosphere – each space holds its own distinguishable features. Curator, Samantha Littley explains, “Each space has its own logic – the first includes work by artists who use light elements for their metaphorical qualities: the second space focuses on artists who work with optical effects, and the third considers the work of artists who focus on light’s potential to create ambience.”
‘Light Play’ features works from The University of Queensland’s Art Collection amongst others that were carefully considered and borrowed for the show. Artists include: Trish Adams, Paul Adair, Brook Andrew, Lincoln Austin, Marion Borgelt, Ray Cook, Sam Cranstoun, Paula Dawson, Marian Drew, Nicholas Folland, Nathan Gray, Bill Henson, Nigel Lendon, Tim Maguire, Ross Manning, Alexander McKenzie, Nell, Jacky Redgate, Arryn Snowball, Katarina Vesterberg and Carl Warner.
‘Light Play’ encourages the imagination, invites discovery and presents a visually uplifting experience. The featured artists have grasped the primary tool of light and finessed it in strategic and notably, differentiating ways. Paula Dawson’s digital hologram Hyperobject: Homeland (2013) treats the eyes with a luscious collaboration of colour. Digital yet natural looking patterns vibrantly align against the blackened background. Littley expects that Dawson’s piece will generate some keen interest. “The work unites art, science and technology to consider the strategies of war, and the need to acknowledge a common humanity in our globalised world.”
Lady Stardust (2013) by Lincoln Austin, consists of a light box which creates a combination of two and three-dimensional space. This optical illusion moves depending on the position of the viewer, the white spheres rise and fall away. Littley says that the work, “Plays with perception, and on the distinctions between painting and sculpture.” Paul Adair’s Light bulb (2011) sees an idyllic, glossy aluminum bulb; a metaphor for illumination. Rather than emanating light, the bulb carries reflections of all that surrounds, enhancing the visual experience. This work, “Is something of a departure for him,” says Littley. “However, it connects with his interest in metaphor and irony.” Adair finds pleasure in those flickering moments, where one thing can be seen as another.
Viewers are encouraged to observe the works individually as well as collectively, uncovering similarities and comparing contrasts. Littley says, “It would be great if visitors were drawn to make connections between the gallery spaces, and to find links between the exhibition and their own experiences.” The chosen collection demonstrates the artist’s ability in adopting light into their practice in order to transpire their narratives. Viewers will see how light can be reproduced in endless ways to create varying and contemplative thoughts.
UQ Art Museum
Until 15 November, 2015
Queensland
Paula Dawson, Hyperobject: Homeland, 2013, digital hologram, 120 x 120cm
Collection: University of New South Wales
Reproduced courtesy the artist
Lincoln Austin, Lady Stardust, 2013, light box, synthetic polymer paint, aluminium and light emitting diodes 101 x 121 x 13cm
Collection of The University of Queensland, purchased 2014
Reproduced courtesy the artist and Andrew Baker Art Dealer, Brisbane
