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Paul Ryan: Return to the Island

February 23, 2023 - March 12, 2023

Courtesy: the artist and James Makin Gallery, Melbourne.

Return to the Island is greatly influenced by the author Richard Flanagan, whose audiobooks Paul Ryan listened to as he painted. In particular, the novels Wanting and Gould’s Book of Fish, both of which illuminate the pervasive cruelty of so-called civilised society. This influence tied itself to something new in the artist’s practice. Known for his tongue-in-cheek use of appropriation and anachronism, this latest body of work borrows images from Goya drawings. Such figures and elements spoke directly to the artist of the hopelessness of their situation within an unrelenting landscape of viciousness.

Despite its positioning, the paintings included in Return to the Island are not turbulent or exclusively darkened by its subject matter. The works have a serenity, provided by the night sky, or the ghostly glow of an indistinguishable figure. Ryan’s paintings do not paint the trauma of experience, but hold a mirror up to it. Like a still body of water, these paintings offer a reflective surface of contemplation, a way to work through it all. For Ryan, there is some hope in the mix.

Opening Event: Thursday 23 February, 6 – 8pm.

 

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Details

Start:
February 23, 2023
End:
March 12, 2023

Organiser

James Makin Gallery
Phone
+61 (0)439 770 362
Email
info@jamesmakingallery.com
View Organiser Website

Venue

James Makin Gallery
89 Islington Street
Collingwood, VIC 3066 Australia
+ Google Map

Details

Start:
February 23, 2023
End:
March 12, 2023

Organiser

James Makin Gallery
Phone
+61 (0)439 770 362
Email
info@jamesmakingallery.com
View Organiser Website

Venue

James Makin Gallery
89 Islington Street
Collingwood, VIC 3066 Australia
+ Google Map