Duologue 2018–

            You put together two things that have not been put together before and the world is changed.

                                    Julian Barnes, author, 'Levels of Life'

 

Putting visual elements together in a constructed or chosen space is basic to painting, drawing, and photography. The nature of the dialogue between objects can become less obvious or even hidden to most viewers when a naturalistic scene is being portrayed.

In this series of 'imaginings' I am investigating the relationship between two figurative elements in a stage-like space. With this simple environment I want to convey an affinity between the two objects, however strange their relationship may be.

Our observations of humans or of objects quite often suggest a unique dialogue or narrative such as — Those two children are so sweet and loving together, or, That sofa is definitely fighting with those curtains!

The juxtapositions in these artworks is primarily concerned with relationship. We all seem to be slightly different people when we are with one friend or another. One friend may bring out our interest in growing vegetables while another friend may bring out our interest in Coen Brothers' films.

That same 'tug-at-identity' that happens between two people also may occur between two objects placed in close proximity. Certain subjective narratives are suggested by these object-relationships. Some convey a poetic relationship, or a simple humour, while others may uncover an uncomfortable truth.

It occurs to me that even here in these semi-abstract, fictional and, at times, playful images, art and life are in conversation.