Iran Biennale
Heywood, Anthony (2016) Iran Biennale. [Exhibition/show, Sculpture]
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- 3927:89070
- 3927:95036
- 3927:95037
In this work, context and content informs an image that does not suffer from isolation, nor is it neutralised. The catalyst was a newspaper item which was about the indescrimate slaughter of elephants simply for their ivory tusks. Apart from the obvious, and very relevant, considerations of suffering and conservation it was the ultimate irrationality of this barbaric act that engaged me to do the work, as I felt that as an artist I wanted to show my concern for the plight of the elephants. Why does ivory have such value and why do we allow the simple law of supply and demand- as applied not to basic essentials, but to conspicuous consumption, to exercise such a gross tyranny over our planet? The work therefore challenges traditional notions, initially by evoking classicism, a form which utilised materials of both symbolic and intrinsic value which would age gracefully. This idea of long term appreciation and value is quite obviously alien, not only to the procurers and purveyors of ivory, but too much of contemporary culture. Ironically, the medium of the newspaper, which was responsible for disseminating the plight of the elephants, is also responsible for the dissemination of a great deal of information and entertainment which is arguably of dubious value. An outdated newspaper which is not performing the function for which it was designed, is a peculiarly bereft- the very epitome of vacuity-no longer fresh news. The body of an elephant slaughtered solely for possession of its tusks is the detritus of a supply created to meet the demand of a particular rarefied ostentatious and perverted refinement of taste.
This work is one of my outcomes as a result of 25 years research and development using paper as a material which can hold its form, I have develop techniques of casting which enables large scale forms to be made with papers. These sculptures hold their form and shape whilst also retaining the evidence or identity of paper, this enables a dialogue in the work which creates a perception of vulnerability as paper is perceived to be impermanent. In our everyday lives our books, currency, Christmas cards and newspapers are printed in their millions. I have chosen to use the paper and have created a casting technique which enables me to create sculpture which is long lasting.
Improving economic competitiveness by creating a wider awareness of how materials can be recycled; for example how the use of discarded paper materials can be incorporated into generating new forms in combination with recycled materials for example newspaper materials. This feeds directly into public awareness of how recycling of basic materials can be utilized into a creative form.
Creating networks of agencies who are concerned for the wellbeing of natural resources and informing how they can enable their workforce and clients to become more sensitive and appreciative of how to recycle and use sustainable sources in a creative way.
Underpinning all of the issues with a clear philosophical environmental concern that is manifest in the making of the sculpture.
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