Benjamin Aitken: You’re so vain, you probably think these paintings are about you.
Benjamin Aitken is one of the most dynamic young Australian painters of his generation, being a five times finalist in the AGNSW Archibald Prize, and the Sir John Sulman Painting Prize, all while showing in numerous galleries in Australia and overseas.
Ben’s practice is anything but conventional, creating inspiring mash-ups of blatant consumerism, art world tropes, nightmarish cartoons, and the shadow of addiction. There’s a fervour and determination in these works which epitomise struggle, both as an individual, and as an artist determined to make his mark within the pervasively benign culture of late capitalism.
Either way, astute collectors will immediately recognise these as good paintings. There are seven small paintings (spelling the word ‘OPIATES’) and one major painting of four panels, measuring 6m across. It’s a truly spectacular show.
We’re also proud to introduce the work of another Australian artist – Coady. Fresh from extraordinary shows at Finkelstein gallery in Melbourne, as well as sell-outs at the recent Australian art fairs – this is Coady’s first solo show in New Zealand and it’s a ripper! With things being the way they are, we could all do with some happy pills – and I promise, these will make you smile!
Inga Fillary is welcomed back with a major installation of her burnt furniture, where she explores ideas of consumerism, materiality, and the recent anti-anthropocentric turn in continental philosophy – into a dialogue with contemporary art.
The gallery has never looked better. All welcome!
The show is on at Scott Lawrie Gallery in Mount Eden and runs until Saturday 19 March. Open Tuesday to Saturday 11am-5pm.
Scott Lawrie Gallery, Shed 10, The Steelworks, 13 Coles Avenue (off Valley Road), www.scottlawrie.com
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