watermark
Kieran Bryant
Opening 06.02.19 6-8pm
Artist Talks 28.02.19 6-7pm
A continuation of Bryant’s water-centric bodies of work that pool around that fluid and its potential to generate reconsiderations of queer visibility and connectivity, watermark focuses on water’s capacity for leaving a mark. That of a marked body, a wet stain upon the skin. Bryant is interested in the notion of emotional and figurative staining. What happens to a wound that never heals, a puddle that never dries, a bruise that never fades. A water-logged memory that is traced into your body and psyche. So that the body may even be absent but the slick remains.
The exhibition, consisting of text-based print, sound, mixed-media installation, and performance, is driven by a series of text that form a loose autobiographical narrative. These not only re-frame an escape from an abusive relationship, but also re-textualise that story into a larger discussion surrounding visibility and domestic abuse within queer relationships and community. The text is composed of direct quotations and paraphrased excerpts from popular and contemporary sources and Bryant’s own writings.
An exhibition text generously written by Jonno Revanche accompanies the exhibition.
Soaked harmonies and water-logged words; on opening night Kieran Bryant and Marcus Whale will amplify stained feelings and memories through the live performance of a soundscape of re-interpreted watery film scores, and a reading of the watermark text. This soundscape can then be heard in the gallery space for the duration of the exhibition.
If you or someone you know has experienced, or is at risk of, violence and need help or support, please contact one of the support hotlines below: 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Lifeline on 13 11 14
Images
Kieran Bryant, in between; a slick, 2016, PVA wood glue, dimensions variable, image credit: George Popov
Kieran Bryant, stain suite [It's so tiring to be terrified all the time], 2017-19, 1 of 6 digital print on polysilk with cord, 70cm x 100cm