Tuesday 11 December 2007

Res Artis: Bright Ugochukwu Eke

Too often we seem to conveniently forget that we are simply one of many species on this planet, as reliant on its environmental structures and systems as all other living species. Our life cycle may be longer than some other creatures but it is also significantly irrelevant in comparison to other living elements central to life on Earth.

We like to think that our technological, industrial and financial 'advances' render us immune to the effects of environmental changes taking place around us. We seem particularly adept at ignoring the changes that occur as a result (whether direct or indirect) of our own actions and insatiable consumption.

So, it is refreshing to see artist, designers and other creatives (like many of those listed and linked on this page) producing work that reflects our careless approach to our planet's resources and the damage we are inflicting on the same fragile ecosystems that allow our own survival, as well as that of all other species, to continue.

Environmental artist Bright Ugochukwu Eke, is one such creative striving to expose the negative impacts of our short-sightedness. During his month long residency with the Djerassi Resident Artists Program in the US, Eke created a permanent sculpture for the project's outdoor collection, of carved, wooden fish hanging from an oak tree. Underneath these forty fish, which have been stained black, hang small bags of oil. The piece is a clear symbol of the harrowing effects of pollution on our rivers and land. It demonstrates in no uncertain terms how we recklessly incapacitate our environments ability to support the wildlife which relies on its natural cycles for survival.

Copyright: ResArtists - Bright Ugochukwu EkeFrom: Res ArtisDec07
"Born in 1976 in Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria, Bright Ugochukwu Eke attended the University of Nsukka and received a BA in Fine Arts. Eke focuses on the total disregard for the environment not only by the authorities but also by individuals who litter their communities indiscriminately.

In the installation Acid Rain, he creates water (rain) droplets containing a blackish industrial chemical similar to acid rain. Shield consists of raincoats and umbrellas made of water sachets to protect from the toxic effects of acid rain. His personal experience of acid rain occurred whilst working in the rain in a polluted area. The result was skin irritation caused by the toxicity of the rain. In these two works the artist highlights how industrialization especially in developing countries and specifically in the oil producing areas of Nigeria has caused the decimation of the natural environment..."

Copyright: ResArtis - Bright Ugochukwu EkeRead more about Eke's Residency here and his Eco-Scope Blog here

Tuesday 4 December 2007

Mark Wallinger wins Turner Prize

From: BBC News, 3 Dec07

"Mark Wallinger has been named the winner of the Turner Prize for his replica of the one-man anti-war protest in Parliament Square, State Britain.

Actor and director Dennis Hopper presented the £25,000 award at a ceremony at the Tate Liverpool gallery.

"I am indebted to all those people who contributed to the making of State Britain," said Wallinger...

Copyright: BBC - Mark Wallinger was first nominated for the Turner Prize 12 years ago ...He was favourite to win the prize for his £90,000 installation, which recreates everything from Brian Haw's protest in Parliament Square in 2001.

Every detail was copied from his tarpaulin shelter and tea-making area to the messages of support and hand-painted placards.


..."Brian Haw is a remarkable man who has waged a tireless campaign against the folly and hubris of our government's foreign policy," Wallinger said.

Copyright: BBC - Brian Haw's protest in Parliament Square began in 2001"For six-and-a-half years he has remained steadfast in Parliament Square, the last dissenting voice in Britain. Bring home the troops, give us back our rights, trust the people," he added.

The jury commended Wallinger, 48, for its "immediacy, visceral intensity and historic importance". They said: "The work combines a bold political statement with art's ability to articulate fundamental human truths."..."

Read the full story here

Sunday 2 December 2007

Spam to Print

These brilliant designs from Linzie Hunter turn all those horrible spam email messages many of us receive on a daily basis into works of art. We're all for turning rubbish into art so here's to Linzie and her wonderful spam prints!