One painting, made again, and again. No endless variety.
PJ Hickman explores ‘painting’ through the history and conventions of painting, the art world generally, and the context and function of the gallery. His approach is based on simplification and repetition, being straightforward, matter of fact, ordered, rational and systematic. Making the same painting, rather than an “endless variety” of different paintings, is the outcome of consistently pursuing this increasingly reductive and conceptual approach to painting.
Using standard dimensions, basic nondescript materials and a repetitive process allows another reproduction of the painting to be made, barely indistinguishable from the others. The serial reproduction of the same painting challenges the endless variety and tireless quest to achieve new levels of innovation and progress, while also undermining standard notions of commercial value and artistic originality.
Hickman is a Melbourne based artist widely exhibited in institutional and private galleries in Australia, China, US and Europe. His work is represented in institutional, corporate, and private collections.
Exhibition Details:
Opening Friday, Nov 2 6-9pm
Exhibition runs: Oct 31 - Nov 24
Arcade Project Space
suite 2, level 1 / 119 Hopkins St Footscray
open Wed-Sat 12-5
