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A Closed Fist, 2017A Closed Fist is a solo exhibition by Andy Mullens looking at the feelings of frustration and futility she experiences when observing contemporary attitudes in society, media and politics. The news, “fake news”, trending hashtags, protests, petitions, deaths, elections, fear and hate have been overwhelming.
Interested in the phenomenon of echo chambers and social media algorithms that only serve to reinforce one’s beliefs, Mullens questions these modes of communication. She examines our need to publicise our views in comparison to the change it inspires. Her observations and frustrations have become a deep-felt sense of weariness – sentiments she renders into sculptures and installations using symbolism borrowed from classic-Australiana, protest culture and modern-day media. Reappropriating the tools of protest, Mullens uses materials such as slogan t-shirts, picket signs, megaphones, flags, and a bullet-proof vest to highlight what might really be the intent behind these actions and attitudes. This exhibition was a result of the Yen Female Art Awards that Mullens won in 2016. A Closed Fist opened on November 23 2017 at Gaffa in Sydney.
List of works:
MVO, 2017 engraved metal trophy, plastic 17 x 13 x 5 cm In history’s page, 2017 Australian flag, house paint, brass 180 x 90 cm Hear! Hear!, 2017 megaphones, timber 70 x 30 x 20 cm yes/no, 2017 Perspex, timber, metal 206 x 40 x 25 cm One size fits all, 2017 screenprint on cotton t-shirts size M, edition of 50 Boundless plains to share (Australian Flag), 2017 thermal shock blankets, thread and tape 185 x 92.5 cm Advance Fair Australia, 2017 bulletproof vest, house paint 51 x 50 x 5 cm |
