Cynthia Ellis has created a series of new works where paint is paramount - paint is the art, paint is the ’self’ as she puts it. So take for a moment that thought and then look at these works, look closely at the paint, it’s the star and it’s very much alive. That’s where these luscious licks of paint will capture you with its character. A character that the artists usually ignore, but Cynthia has worked with it creating results that are spellbinding, with volume and substance the paint becomes sculptural in its form.
In the gallery each one is presented close-up with multiple views. Looking at them straight on only tells half the story, so we have included perspective view where possible in an effort to do them justice.
In addition to the current series, Cynthia has also included a number of paintings from an earlier period dating from 1995 and 1996. Seeing the paintings from each period together adds another dimension to the exhibition. Although the works are similar, side by side, their differences become apparent and the journey she has been on using paint is a solid medium becomes clear.
But that’s enough from me! What is much better is to let Cynthia explain the ideas behind her exhibition.
“The works presented in this exhibition comprise of two periods works, 1995 1996 paintings and the latest series of paintings. Both selections of works have been included to produce the post pack exhibition.
At some point the idea of whether landscape had a fundamental part within the working process came to life, which brought the investigation of the 1995 1996 paintings to explore this possibility. This resulted in twenty three studies and a selection of these have been included.
Incorporating the most recent works took the idea of post pack paintings, painted in the landscape to explore an embodiment of landscape. Both bring a sense of space through experience but not representation of place.
Process is central to my arts practice. It involves material, and the act of working within limited or limitless circumstances involving time and materials. Time within process, when the work is completed, further addresses the material by changing its surface, where exciting things can happen. The oil paint itself is important to work by way of its volume which embodies various material consistencies. I have a conscious input towards where the material will finally rest on the surface and to the aesthetics of the worked area, such as a square canvas, which also takes on the process of being human through time. It’s these various and differing tendencies to the material that the paintings really take hold, become individual but still non representational.Because of these aspects to the material its ability to engage and act on its own accord is very compelling. With these ideas in mind the work can take on a ‘life’ of its own and meaning can be inherent within the very nature of the material. I’ve always wanted to do a series of paintings that I could pack into a postage box to be posted through the mail to its destination.”
Cynthia Ellis is an accomplished artist working in Western Australia. Her career spans 15 years and includes many successful solo and group shows throughout WA. Please take the time to visit her website and read her CV for more information.
Now all that’s left to do is have a look at the exhibition!
