MENU

Brad Allen-Waters

Bag Hut | 2017

2. Brad Allen-Waters and Miriam Williamson, Bag Hut, 2017 photo Ian Hobbs
2. Brad Allen-Waters and Miriam Williamson, Bag Hut, 2017 photo Ian Hobbs

bio:

Initially trained in graphic design, Allen-Waters is a self-taught multi-disciplinary artist working mainly with sculptural and light forms. He was a founding member of the artist-run initiative Shepard and Newman collective based in Darlinghurst in the 80s. Allen-Waters’ low-voltage sculptural lamps, one of which was exhibited in Perspecta ’91, received global attention. He has exhibited in both independent and major galleries including Roslyn Oxley. His work is in a number of private collections and the National Gallery of Australia. Allen-Waters has worked with MAP projects and is now co-owner and co-director of artist-run initiative The SLAB in the Blue Mountains.

"Bag Hut" 2017

Bag Hut explores shifts in memory, time and place. While memory fogs individual perception, the landscape embraces all. The family tree, burdened by its own weight, drops a branch here and there. The work references the temporary depression-era hut built by my grandfather in Kandos in 1923. He moved across from Hill End, seeking work in the local mines and eventually the cement works. Bag Hut is a site-specific installation sourcing local materials similar to those my grandfather used. The site shares the same aspect as the original structure, looking out to Cherry Tree Hill with Mount Rocky behind.

statement:

Allen-Waters’ work cross-references metaphor and allegory in art, science, architecture and design. Driven by techno-aestheticism, the main focus of his work is sculptural lighting. The one-off sculptural pieces document a provocative exploration of possibilities and contradictions in form and function. Inspired by the sciences and a lifetime obsession for reverse engineering old and new technologies he uses found objects to inform sculptural and design experiments exploring the physics of light.

Materials | Ply, acrylic, solar prints, lime, lard, corrugated iron, gum branches, fabric, AV component.
Location | Paul’s Paddock
1. Brad Allen-Waters and Miriam Williamson, Bag Hut, 2017 photo Gus Armstrong
1. Brad Allen-Waters and Miriam Williamson, Bag Hut, 2017 photo Gus Armstrong