Discover a new generation of art practitioners as they invite you on an expansive journey of observation and discovery motivated by the demands of our time.
From the curious ways in which technology has affected our way of communicating to legitimisation of illegal art and identity politics hinged on religious, personal and social connectedness, Espial showcases graduating digital media students of the Queensland College of Art, Griffith University.
Opening 7 Novemberat the Gold Coast City Gallery, the exhibition presents a kaleidoscope of innovative and interactive experiences to challenge audiences.
Dr Laini Burton, Lecturer and Convenor of Studio Art, Fashion Design and Art Theory at the QCA, says young artists are becoming more rigorous, more experimental and more daring.
“The artists here exemplify the very best of a vital, creative economy emerging from the Gold Coast,” she says.
“What I am witnessing is how the students are really embracing digital media alongside more traditional mediums.
“Of course, the phenomenon of digital media is that it remains intangible, ephemeral and weightless, yet it is capable of conveying some of the heaviest human experiences.
“I am encouraged that Studio Art enables the best of both worlds — blending digital media with the hand-crafted, the sculpted and the more traditional fine art processes that both the artists and public enjoy and understand.”
She says environmental concerns are also a palpable feature in the show, and as always, the area of body politics is a keen interest among many of the artists, though their approaches vary widely and across mediums in innovative and exciting ways.
The official opening takes place from 6.00pm, Friday 6 November and the free public show runs from 7 — 29 November in Gallery 1, Gold Coast City Gallery.
Exhibiting students:Jenna Baker | Jason Haggerty | Jennifer Harries | Elizabeth Hudson | Suzette Macgregor | Tahira McCloy | Monique Montfroy | Cherie Noble | Jack Packshaw | Dan Pollard | Tyler Russell | Melissa Spratt | Rachel Spencer | Chan Su | Chen Yang Zhao
After Dark with QCA: art. music. talks. food. is another special event on Thursday 26 November where audiences can hear exhibiting artists featured inEspialdiscuss their work and stay afterwards for Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University Bachelor of Popular Music Graduate Showcase Concert in The Basement.