Amy Marnie
Waking up on top
bronze, wood
120.0 x 13.0 x 25.0 cm
Arts

Describe the ideas behind your work short–listed for Top Arts

In all my works, I have used the simple shape of the house to represent the ‘inner self’. In my sculpture, “Waking Up On Top”, I have tried to infer a feeling of isolation by using a long, thin piece of wood from which a figure sits. On the other hand, the sculpture “Struggle” represents the struggle we have in everyday life, as the figure tries to hold his house literally above his head. In my paintings, I have chosen a limited palate of colours for their dramatic, moody appeal. I believe the most complex emotions can be evoked from the simplest of forms. I have also incorporated the symbol of bridges and ladders which symbolize the struggle to reach our goals. In this respect, the struggle is shown in the painting: “House” by the fragmented nature of the bridge.

What were your starting points? Where did your inspiration come from?

I was inspired by an exhibition I saw at the ‘Edward Gallery’ in Jakarta at the end of last year. Although I can’t remember the artist’s name, I loved the way he used simple bronze men to explore a range of emotions. One sculpture particularly inspired me, which was a bronze house with a family balancing on the roof. This led me to explore the notion of balance, struggle, and isolation within life. I used the house shape as my main symbol.

What media/materials did you select and why?

I chose to work with Red Gum wood in my sculptures because it has a beautiful dark, rich colour when refined. This compliments bronze quite well. Although bronze is a long process, the result at the end is nonetheless worth all the work. I chose acrylic paint because it dries quickly and allows me to apply the paint in a spontaneous and loose manner.

How did new technologies influence your ideas or working methods?

I used electrical tools – angle grinders, sanders, ext to refine the wood’s surface. The Internet and art gallery websites were great for researching.

What challenges/difficulties/discoveries did you encounter in producing your work?

The most challenging aspect of my work was the long and laborious process of the ‘lost wax’ method for making bronze figures. They took a long time to make, cast and finally be sent to the foundry. It was only at the end of the year when I discovered my own painting ability!

What exhibitions did you see in 2006? Was there a specific exhibition that influenced the development of your ideas and working methods?

• Edward Art Gallery in Jakarta, Indonesia – this is the exhibition which lead me to explore houses.
• Top Arts 2005
• Pablo Picasso
• Howard Arkley
• Drawn together: the drawing lives of Nora Heysen, Judy Casab and Margaret Woodward
• Next Generation, Ballarat Fine Art Gallery
• Lida Abdul, ACCA

Did you see Top Arts: VCE 2005? If so, what was your response?

Yes – I was particularly impressed by the abstract paintings yet noticed there was a lack of large sculptures.

Discuss any ethical or moral issues or concerns evident in your work?

The isolating nature of the modern world is evident in my work. I am most concerned about the future, and how interaction between people is becoming more and more distanced as technology advances: mobile phones, Internet etc. In my paintings, house shapes are represented in isolation of everything else, or simply in a vast area of space to reflect this notion of isolation.

Did you consider presentation and conservation issues in the process and production of your work?

Yes, all of my work has been designed to last a long time. The wood has been polished to help prevent cracking. The canvases have been coated with varnish to conserve them. I wanted my sculptures not only to express my opinions, but also look stylish and delicate.

What advice would you give to students undertaking Art or Studio Arts?

To think of an idea or starting point before year 12 starts and then begin your folio straight away! Be ambitious but also realistic!

What were highlights of your arts studies in 2006?

Discovering the fun in painting – a great way to vent the stresses of year 12. I also enjoyed writing essays about artists such as Picasso, Goya, Booth and Ghittoes.

Are you planning to pursue a career in the arts? What will you be doing in 2007?

I am planning to show my work in a gallery and continue to paint. I hope to get into the ‘Creative Advertising’ course at RMIT.