Constantine Nicholas, Untitled (jamescook3000) 2005. Oil, Ink, Vinyl, enamel, eyelets and metal leaf on canvas.
Anne-Marie Archer - Constantine Nicholas: Untitled Transactions
16 May 2005
Constantine Nicholas’ Untitled Transactions takes you on a journey of discovery as you delve into the layers of metal leaf, oil, ink, felt pen and varnish to find a canvas plied with an amalgamation of imprints of colonisation.
Every piece tells a story through elements of exploration and collectively the exhibition provides a sense of continuity through a series of unique events.
The works depict fragments of maps, astronomy, botany, trade and an interesting use of text to translate the observations of early explorers. For example, some of the elements of the Untitled (jamescook3000) include documents from Cook’s voyage such as a map from the Endeavour River (present day Cooktown) and his illustrations of the Transit of Venus in Tahiti in 1769, as well as James Cook’s actual signature in metal leaf, creating an epic in its own right.
Even without having met Nicholas upon his return home to Perth to glean an understanding of the intention behind each piece, the artist’s awareness of historical importance, post-colonial issues and cultural identities in the Asia-Pacific region can be appreciated simply by standing before his work.
The inclusion of old English scripts in calligraphy style and Asian and Arabic languages, often overlapping, adds another dimension to the commentary conveyed.
His rich surface layers have been described as an echo of the opulence of the colonial eras that invite comparison with the richness of today’s capitalism. And the thick gloss finishes enhance the luminosity of gold and silver, creating a striking contrast with the black and sometimes red featured in his art.
Perth Galleries’ open space and natural light enhances the magnificence of the metal leaf and the construction of his work, creating a wonderful space to view this exhibition.
Nicholas’ exhibition is a pleasure to view for both the aesthetics and content and a must see if you have the opportunity.
- Anne-Marie Archer
More Information
Untitled Transactions – Constantine Nicholas
Until 31 May
Perth Galleries
61 Forrest St, Subiaco
Tuesday - Thursday 10.00am - 5.00pm
Friday 10.00am - 7.30pm
Sunday 2.00 - 5.00pm, closed Saturday and public holidays
Phone: 08 9380 9595
Admission Free.
Website: http://www.perthgalleries.com.au/
