Emerging Artist Reveals Uneasy Truth at Matchbox Studios

Emerging Artist Reveals Uneasy Truth

This year, Amanda is completing her Bachelor of Creative Industries, majoring in Visual Arts, at the Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology in Tauranga. She is revealing an intimate body of work at the “Human” exhibition at Matchbox Studios on Cuba Street, Wellington from August 29 - September 17.

“Vulgar Purity” stems from the growing statistics of domestic abuse in a series of beautifully painted watercolour nudes. Scenes of marble statues carved by old masters depict the aggressive male and subservient female or women in submission. Gray manipulates these scenes to free the women from male oppression, releasing them from entrapment within the stone using ethereal, fleshy tones. In doing so, she illustrates a personal story of a woman’s survival from domestic abuse.

Gray’s aesthetic approach is fresh and visually rewarding. By removing aspects of the suppressive male from the original sculptured masterpiece, Gray is able to change the narrative being told by the original artists. The previously subservient female image reappears as an empowered woman.

Reflecting on her work, Gray states; “My paintings are a metaphor of escape, and even though this is a personal journey, I know there are women who can relate. Domestic abuse is something I feel strongly about and although it is not an answer, my work comes from a positive place. It’s OK to say you’re not OK.”

Domestic violence is still prevalent in our society, and 76% of family violence incidents go unreported. If you or someone you know is in need of support, visit www.areyouok.org.nz or phone 0800 456 450.

ENDS

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