Described as ‘objects of virtue’, Newman’s 16 sculptural creations both puzzle and enlighten. ‘There is a twist here in that they appear, at first glance, to be typical representations of objects’, says the artist, ‘but on further inspection there are oddities, strange combinations and text which sometimes bear no relation to the object, but can be viewed as an integral element of the design.’
Nicole Newman, Untitled 10, 2015, silver and perspex, 18 x 15 x 28cm. Photograph: Matthew Stanton. Courtesy the artist
The intricate and enigmatic sculptures are housed in handcrafted perspex cabinets, complete with engraved imagery and metaphoric, often dark phrases. Small in scale, yet rich in meaning, Yiddish text is layered with silver sculptures of fish, flora and insects, and the occasional appearance of the artist’s resin-cast hand. Newman’s consistent use of the historical language in her solo exhibitions is an important reference to her childhood and cultural background, whilst enabling certain messages to be conveyed. Embedded in Untitled 11 (2015) are the words, A sach mentshen zehen, nor vainik fun zai farshtaien, which translates to ‘many people see, but only a few understand’.
‘Genaivisheh Shtiklech (Tricky Pieces)’ prompts the viewer to look beyond the surface of things, at their hidden meanings.
Linden New Art, Tasma Terrace
23 February to 9 March, 2018
Melbourne
