Rachel Coad's new body of paintings tap into the threads of collective memory.
The youthful faces with Dickensian features that Coad paints are clearly not of this time. Suspenders, cravats and neat brass buttons are not the only clues to their origin story. The boys’ expressions proffer a streetwise poise and wisdom beyond the veil of youth.
Coad describes how these subjects could not have comprehended what having their image captured meant. Had they ever seen a likeness of themselves, or held a camera? Would they have even viewed the photograph? Curiosity and apprehension are emblazoned on their faces.
Coad’s rich yet limited palette centres attention on each subject. Sweeping washes of umbers and blues deftly beckon each face forward from a deep and moody ground. The softly rendered illusion encourages a singular moment of connection between viewer and subject to the exclusion of all distraction.
Hours
Date | Times |
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Tue 7 May |
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Wed 8 May |
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Thu 9 May |
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Fri 10 May |
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Sat 11 May |
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Location
Gallerysmith
170-174 Abbotsford St
North Melbourne 3051
Price and bookings
This is a free event
Booking not required
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