Monday 14 December 2009
Tracey Eastham is an artist based in Bolton who has worked with Louise Bristow from Brighton to produce the new Stairway exhibition at the Harris, Collaged. The artists first exhibited together in a collage show Not For Your Eyes at Wolstenholme Projects in Liverpool in 2008. Although they use the medium of collage very differently, the two bodies of work complemented each other and encouraged the artists to work together.
Tracey's collages use the format of the traditional landscape to explore the mystery of collage through re-used images. She uses a range of references from 18th century romantic painting and book covers, to images of jewellery and objects from nature to create a landscape which is not quite what it seems.
In contrast Louise constructs 3-dimensional arrangements in her studio, reminiscent of stage sets, which she then paints. This allows her to use different collage elements such as photographs and found images, as well as three-dimensional models to create new environments. She finds inspiration in everyday things and how they express bigger ideas.
This exhibition explores the boundless potential of collage. Through their different styles each artist draws the viewer into the fantasy world they have created, revealing captivating new locations to explore.
The Stairway space offers North West based artists an opportunity to exhibit in one of the most prominent areas of the Harris Museum & Art Gallery, particularly supporting emerging contemporary artists, while placing a strong emphasis on promoting regional talent.
The exhibition continues until 17 April 2010.
For further information about the artists and their work, please visit:
www.axisweb.org/artist/traceyeastham
www.theliverpoolartjournal.blogspot.com
www.louisebristow.com
