Regional artists’ work on show in Murwillumbah
04 February 2021
New exhibitions explore experience, connection and identity
Gallery DownTown in Murwillumbah will present two new solo exhibitions by regional artists from Friday 5 February 2021.
Gold Coast-based artist Aaron Chapman will exhibit Purple is Black Blooming, alongside Origin of Identity by fellow Gold Coast artist Michael Stiegler.
Purple is Black Blooming reveals a deeply personal narrative, both mourning and celebrating the colourful imagination of childhood innocence. Aaron Chapman’s rich colour photography considers childhood and the home, as people’s experiences inside these spaces have the potential to deliver the foundation for who we become.
“I would like to invite viewers to reflect on their own experiences in their childhood home(s) and to consider how these significant physical environments protect intimacy, provide refuge and keep memories,” Chapman said.
Origin of Identity showcases contemporary tribalism as an expression of identity and culture to reveal modern mythology. Michael Stiegler’s exhibition features large paintings, mixed media collages and vessels inspired by ancient and pagan mythology, but which depict modern identity and diversity.
“Each artwork is an interpretation of what modern relics or artifacts could be, portraying individualism and self, rather than actual objects. The characters featured in my work represent how I see people from the inside, their inner selves,” Stiegler said.
“We are thrilled to present these two artists as part of the Community Access Exhibitions Program at Gallery DownTown. Chapman and Stiegler both have a unique contemporary practice and I’m excited to share these exhibitions with our audiences,” Tweed Regional Gallery Director Susi Muddiman OAM said.
Purple is Black Blooming and Origin of Identity continue until Tuesday 6 April 2021.
On Saturday 6 March, 11am–12pm (NSW), Michael Stiegler will present a Meet the Artist talk at Gallery DownTown, where he will provide insight into his artistic practice and exhibition. Then on Saturday 20 March, 11am–12pm (NSW), Aaron Chapman will be in conversation with Gallery Director Susi Muddiman.
Both events are free and bookings are essential due to limited capacity. Contact Gallery DownTown on 0426 230 193 for reservations.
Gallery DownTown is an annexe of Tweed Regional Gallery located in the creative hub of M|Arts Precinct, in the heart of Murwillumbah - upstairs at 1 Brisbane Street.
Downloads
Photo 1(JPG, 160KB)
Caption: Michael Stiegler, Terracotta Stamnos 2020, painting on canvas. Image courtesy of the artist.
Photo 2(JPG, 71KB)
Caption: Aaron Chapman, Everything's A Ceiling 2019, photograph. Image courtesy of the artist.