This piece continues my exploration of plastic through representational imagery. This began as simply something to do while I had no other ideas, and to get comfortable in a new studio. Gradually it began to accumulate on the wall. Each spontaneous painting was done over 3-10 minutes. The main material exploration is the interesting resist offered by applying ink to plastic. I have often painted self-portraits over the years for studies or self-expression. It is a theme that continually resurfaces in my work. I enjoy doing self-portraits because it is like studying a model that you can be completely brutal with. There is no sentimentality or fear of hurting the person's feelings should it turn out bad or ugly. I have found my self-portraits to be the place where I take the most risks with representation.
I hope to take this piece outside during the winter to film an installation with the faces blowing around in the snow.
This body of work was created while using The 401 Richmond Career-Launcher Prize.
Copyright: Gareth Bate, 2007