Kristin McIVER – “Statement Pieces”

I admit that l am bit of a text fanatic. Barbara Kruger and Jenny Holzer comes to mind. My mother has questioned how text based artwork is considered “art” and not a piece of literature in a book where its tradition is based. I believe it’s the way you present the text, which distinguishes art from literature. Like any form of material used, nothing is sacred when it comes to artwork, especially in this conceptual climate. 

I first saw McIver’s work in a group show so l was looking forward to viewing her solo exhibition at James Makin Gallery. The title of the show best describes this group of neon lit words. Interestingly, the mostly single words have different titles which add an extra element to the works. You have to take a step back when viewing these and view them individually. We are bombarded daily with neon signs and you can easily switch on your “tune out” button.

McIver has transformed a word to make us not only think of the meaning but to put it into a context by visually adding small elements. An example of this is “Wishlist”. The word “wish” has been repeated three times in a vertical line. Simple and uncomplicated.  There is also the piece “Changes”. The word “change” is written in a neon white light and flashes on and off.

I also enjoyed two pieces that use not only the neon signage but external materials to enhance meaning. The first being “A Questionable Choice” which was a neon sign in a box with the letters half made. The reflection of the sign on the floor completes the word. The other favourite was “The Good Life II” which was the word “good life” written in neon white with plastic black chains falling from the ceiling over the text.

I feel these works questions our consumer mentality and notions of desirability in a developed country such as Australia. Each piece are all concepts that as humans we relate to whether we encompass it or not. These pieces have a culturally and classless motif, that is people in the same economic and social background would find a connection to these artworks. Go and see.

Until 27^th of August

http://www.kristinmciver.com/

http://www.jamesmakingallery.com/