Polish Drops: Chromes, 2005
8, Individually framed Digital C-Prints
28 x 18 inches each
(In Order)
Copper, Lead, Gold, Bronze, Pink, Blue,
Silver
Detail
Installation at Republic Gallery, Vancouver
Different nail lacquers are dropped into water where they take on organic and natural characteristics. The purity of the water, which alters their shape, represents an unconscious environment that has no set motives. The drips suggest expressionistic performance painting caught in action, and comment on notions of autonomy and abstraction. Industrial paint pigments are replaced by cosmetic nail lacquer, intended for vanity and ornamentation of the feminine subject. Chrome material polishes were chosen as a way of accessing a masculine tone of ornamentation. Lead, copper, gold, silver and bronze are liquefied from their original use of decorating motorcycles and cars, or acting as competitive sports metal winnings.