Column and List

A collection of acrylic and tempera paintings on transparent acrylic sheet (Perspex).

As a child I was less discriminating when looking. I'd not yet learned to tune things out.

The TV stations used to broadcast a test card in the morning and afternoon, so the televisions were switched off. The dormant screens were less neutral than now, they tended to have a sort of grey-green rounded out look. At home there were no other surfaces like it. I remember some of the programs, but the set itself also left an impression.

Painting on the back of acrylic sheet creates a reflective surface. Preparing that surface takes the reflections away, and a nebulous space appears. Only looking at the edges can determine properly where the surface is. Glancing toward the central area, there's nothing to focus on. The acrylic sheet becomes a blank amalgam of colour and refracted light.

When I point my camera at these areas and attempt to use the auto focus, it becomes confused. It makes the motors whir in and out, and then it gives a warning. I feel subversive, and a bit cruel, as if getting my own back for something; taking control away before choosing which marks will appear for its eye to feed on. 

J.E.W.