“Final Sunset”
Bryan Spier
6 Aug → 21 Aug 2004

This body of work centres on large multi-panel paintings of light-flares that attempt to engage the entire space. The images conjure references to atmospheric or paranormal phenomena – such as a sunset or ‘ghost lights’; they might also refer to a lens flare from a spotlight or camera flash. As a pictorial device, light is usually used to direct a viewer’s attention to a subject, rather than being the focus itself. By depicting a light source that is directed at the viewer I am inverting the usual viewer/ subject relationship and implicating the audience into the narrative of the painting.

Bryan Spier studied painting and computer animation at the Canberra School of Art. Since graduating in 1998 he has exhibited regularly in Canberra, Melbourne and Sydney. His recent efforts include Respond Grey – a collaborative project with Steven Rendall at the Contemporary Art Space in Canberra in 2003; and Don’t Screw the Crew at TCB Arts Inc in May 2004.