CHILDREN OF THE NORTH (1992/93)
28x28cm, Coloured Woodcuts
DEDICATED TO PADDI AND FREDDIE MILLAR
ARTIST'S NOTE
The idea in this new series was to somehow distance myself from the previous series of works which have featured social and political events in Northern Ireland.
Perception, or what we experience though our sensory apparatus, is being affected by the rapid acceleration of media-related technology. Our view of the word is changing as the 'global environment' expands through media accessibility and the information reservoir gets deeper. My belief is that these elements (good and bad) have woven their way into the fabric of our lives. I also believe that an artist always works within the context or conditions that are indigenous to his or her own time and in doing so, reflects the energy temperament and attitudes of that time.
The idea in this new series was to somehow distance myself from the previous series of works which have featured social and political events in Northern Ireland.
Perception, or what we experience though our sensory apparatus, is being affected by the rapid acceleration of media-related technology. Our view of the word is changing as the 'global environment' expands through media accessibility and the information reservoir gets deeper. My belief is that these elements (good and bad) have woven their way into the fabric of our lives. I also believe that an artist always works within the context or conditions that are indigenous to his or her own time and in doing so, reflects the energy temperament and attitudes of that time.
Print I
I have always been fascinated by The Wizard of Oz allegory and fantasy, the daunting Miss Gulch, and the optimism and truth of the Yellow Brick Road. A classic motion picture that in it's simplicity, far outshines modern blockbusters like Hook and Batman. I wanted a picture that children could respond to, that also included the modern day accent on "real" violence of the more hi-tech Freddie Kruger. |
Print II
The world of Trivia. Young lovers escaping to the world of "disco" incorporating familiar surroundings: dance floor, strobe-lighting, heavy metal, flashing neon, "Captain Fantastic", disco dancers looked over by the heavy-jowled twins: the Bouncers. The next day, depression. Nothing to do. Inspired by Thin Lizzy and Phil Lynott's Dancing in the Moonlight. |
Print III
The old saying "Live Fast - Die Young" is a theme that I have frequently touched on over the years. This is my response to events in Europe, the Unification of Germany and the emergence of a young nationalistic movement in aping the Nazi cause. On the edge of the prints are various inserts; depicting the lifestyles of these thugs. Violence, drug addiction, begging, drunkenness etc. A misspent youth with the three of death hovering in the background. Inspired by Phil Lynott and Thin Lizzy's Out in the Fields. |
Print IV
My answer to the Gulf War featuring Saddam Hussein - as the one-eyed cyclops taking on the might of the allied forces in Desert Storm. Behind him are assembled his motley crew of totally unorganised, ill-disciplined and vastly inferior forces.
My answer to the Gulf War featuring Saddam Hussein - as the one-eyed cyclops taking on the might of the allied forces in Desert Storm. Behind him are assembled his motley crew of totally unorganised, ill-disciplined and vastly inferior forces.
Print V
This print is an exploration into children's toys. The idea that a clockwork musical nursery mobile could be replaced by hovering fighter planes: a very common occurrence in Northern Ireland and other occupied states throughout the world. The heroes of the hour being the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles helping to add a touch of humour to the situation. |
Print VI
A similar theme to print V contrasting toys of my era. The model wooden fort, jousting knights and the mysteries of the wooden horse set against the marvels of the modern computer game with Iron Man blasting out of the video screen.
A similar theme to print V contrasting toys of my era. The model wooden fort, jousting knights and the mysteries of the wooden horse set against the marvels of the modern computer game with Iron Man blasting out of the video screen.
Print VIII
"Rocking Rabbit" meets "King Billy". Graffiti has always figured in my prints. It reflects my interests, loves and hates. For example, my undying love and respect for my favourite football team - Tottenham Hotspur. A list of club legends which have given me so much pleasure over the decades. |
Print IX
This print is a tribute to Keith Haring. During my residency in Derry, I was involved in an international production of "Peach Child" held in the city. This immensely moving event happened to coincide with atrocities being committed in the Balkan War.
This print is a tribute to Keith Haring. During my residency in Derry, I was involved in an international production of "Peach Child" held in the city. This immensely moving event happened to coincide with atrocities being committed in the Balkan War.