John Wigley

My work consists of object based sculpture, video and photography. I am interested in the anxiety we attach to the temporary nature of things; an aspect of the human condition thrown in sharp relief by our times, where nothing seems certain or sacred. There is a need to make secure, to fix, to hold on to, to anchor ourselves to what we know, while all around is in a state of flux.

Through humour and pathos, I explore these themes of anxiety, loss, age and displacement. The work is often simple and economical in its form and handling and is often a dialogue between contrasting materials and states. The objects and materials I choose are archetypal, familiar, everyday and are often seductive: marble, polished bronze, lace, light bulbs, diamonds, hats and shoes etc. These are set with, in, on or alongside less certain materials such as bubble gum, lard, rubber innertubes, rust, paper clips and lard. Something known is re-presented. An iron hat is worn, a speech bubble is bronzed, boxing gloves pin cushioned, and a photograph of a hand is stuck to the ceiling, offering temporary shelter.

Follow this link to John Wigley's Curriculum Vitae.

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