Gallery
New Collage & Mixed Media Work
Now until September 2012
In this new series of work, I use collage and mixed media to challenge the "truth" of our inner nostalgic sense in contrast to the power of advertising and consumer culture.
Incorporating images from a variety of vintage ads, I have intentionally created scenarios to construct my own visual commentary. Taking images and slogans out of their original context and combining them in a considered mixed media layout, I am elaborating on their original intent and purpose. These works play off false or exaggerated claims of products, while highlighting fashion trends of the early 20th century and amplifying the animated, enthusiastic and enticing faces used to capture the attention of consumers.
My intention is to provoke the viewer to read juxtaposed materials on both the obvious surface levels as well as a subconscious one. I love to hear the diversity of response in the viewers' interpretation of each piece based on their own inner experience.
Ultimately, my goal with this series is that each unique combination creates a narrative that captures our universal desires as human beings, the extent that advertisers (and society) are willing to go to 'sell a product' and the degree to which consumers (and we as individuals) allow ourselves to be deceived.
I will be participating in the Farmer's Market on August 9,16 & 23rd. Art cards and postcards, including reproductions of my current work on display now in the GSAC Gallery will be available for purchase. Hope to see you there!
Photo Copyright Leif Norman
We acknowledge we are gathered on Treaty 1 Territory, the home and traditional lands of Anishinaabe (Ojibwe), Ininew (Cree), and Dakota peoples, and in the National Homeland of the Red River Métis. We also acknowledge that Manitoba is located on the Treaty Territories and ancestral lands of the Anishinaabeg, Anishininewuk, Dakota Oyate, Denesuline and Nehethowuk Nations.
We respect the spirit and intent of Treaties and Treaty Making and remain committed to working in partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis people in the spirit of truth, reconciliation and collaboration.
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Acknowledging this truth is important to the Gas Station Arts Centre, yet we acknowledge that it is only a small part of cultivating and protecting strong relationships with Indigenous communities. We continue to consult and work with all Indigenous people of Canada to learn, grow, and do better as a community gathering site, and as an incubator for the Arts.