Themes of history, memory, re-creation and the social power of
architecture are explored in the work of Kirsty Tinkler at WW's
current show. The Australian artist's sculptural work is presented
as part of WW Gallery's "Patio Projects" series of outdoor
site-specific works.
Playing with the idea of the architectural folly which mimics the
façade of the house/gallery building, Tinkler creates engaging
micro and macro worlds. When I first saw the exhibit I noticed a
desire to feel the materials (latex, concrete, wood and rope) and
yet on walking around the façade, I became aware of the large scale
of this work. Tinkler's work talks of the frailty of built space
and comments on the continued use of classical forms and
ornamentation. An empty billboard, devoid of advertising imagery
provokes questions about how society associates certain
objects/signs and what they convey. Or not in this case. The bare
façade of absence only becomes alive when there is a human presence
to witness it.
Despite its size, the temporary structure has a vulnerability to
it, exposed as it is to all elements - weather and humans alike.
Access to the installation is 24/7 allowing for viewing at any time
of the day or night, giving viewers an opportunity to see how the
colours and textures change accordingly.
The fact that this public work of art is socially inclusive is
particularly apt considering its location in Hackney, an area which
has experienced a demographic change with regeneration programmes
and a property boom in and around the East End. Go see before the
work is taken down.
Face Off is showing until Sunday 26 February 2012.
A self-funded space based in London's east end, WW Gallery is
owned by artist/curator couple Chiara Williams and Debra Wilson who
recently showcased former DIVA interviewee Roman Manfredi at the
2011 Venice Biennale.
http://www.wilsonwilliamsgallery.com/about.htm
For more information about Kirsty Tinkler visit: http://www.axisweb.org/seCVPG.aspx?ARTISTID=14800
