Solo Show time again! - 'How the Light Gets In'
I feel fortunate to have been offered another solo exhibition within just 12 months of my last one—this time in a genuine gallery in the city! Ellipsis Gallery on Crown Street expressed interest in my work based on the recommendation of a wonderful longtime friend (thank you, Sophie!).
As a result, I am thrilled to present multiple new pieces that explore themes related to mental health, building on the concepts central to my previous show, 'Held.'
You can view the catalogue at https://www.yumpu.com/s/kjbAGw0Uy4iJlFcX , where my artist statement for the exhibition reads:
The Story of ‘How the Light Gets In…’
This body of work is in part inspired by Leonard Cohen’s 1992 song, ‘Anthem’, conveying a message about the strength and beauty found in imperfection.
My aim is to use these creations as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and to highlight the crucial importance of mental health awareness.
We are all uniquely flawed, like timber with cracks that tell our stories. It is through these cracks that light can shine. It’s natural to recognize that we all need help at different points in our lives, as the human experience is a delicate tapestry woven with threads of fragility in the midst of our flaws. Supporting one another in our moments of vulnerability is one of the purest and most beautiful expressions of love we can share, in which there exists an undeniable beacon of hope. Our imperfections allow our radiance to shine, illuminating the path for ourselves and others.
This initiative provides a source of hope and comfort in a world often filled with chaos, anxiety, and profound despair, offering a refuge for those seeking solace. Together, we can cultivate an environment of compassion and resilience.
Lyrics of ‘Anthem’ (Leonard Cohen)
The birds they sang
At the break of day
Start again
I heard them say
Don't dwell on what has passed away
Or what is yet to be
Ah, the wars they will be fought again
The holy dove, she will be caught again
Bought and sold, and bought again
The dove is never free
Ring the bells that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack, a crack in everything
That's how the light gets in
We asked for signs
The signs were sent
The birth betrayed
The marriage spent
Yeah, and the widowhood
Of every government
Signs for all to see
I can't run no more
With that lawless crowd
While the killers in high places
Say their prayers out loud
But they've summoned, they've summoned up
A thundercloud
They're going to hear from me
Ring the bells that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack, a crack in everything
That's how the light gets in
You can add up the parts
But you won't have the sum
You can strike up the march
There is no drum
Every heart, every heart
To love will come
But like a refugee
Ring the bells that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack, a crack in everything
That's how the light gets in
Ring the bells that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack, a crack in everything
That's how the light gets in
That's how the light gets in
That's how the light gets in