Underculture Contemporary Art Gallery.

If you'd like to know a little bit more about me and my work, check out my profile on Underculture Contemporary's site. The gallery is relatively new to Port Elizabeth and has been bringing some interesting stuff here which is exciting as it doesn't happen often in this limbo-town!

Here is a link to my profile. While you're there you can browse the site too!

http://underculturecontemporary.co.za/sample-page/emma-minkley/artist-statement/ 

'Pataphysical Performance Pieces.

This is a group of objects I made in 2011. I am very interested in the absurd literature of Alfred Jarry, particularly his "Exploits and Opinions of Dr. Faustroll, Pataphysician". These things were made in the mode of Jarryian performance; as a play, a constant dialogue with parts of the artwork. Each piece can be seen as an absurdist prop in a 'pataphysical theatre or carnival.

 

Hello.

To begin.
I started this blog to have it act as a virtual archive of my explorations into the notion of the art object as a performative entity. At the moment I am undertaking a research project (towards my Master's Degree in Fine Art at NMMU) which investigates this idea via the making of objects (I sometimes also like to call them things) which encourage viewer participation or interaction. The project is also focused on documenting or mapping the ruptures and movements of the art-making/creative process.

Within the creative act, the artist may be seen to perform an artwork, evident in the mode of work he or she takes on; the collection of materials which are compiled in a certain way, recompiled, reflected on; perhaps disassembled once again, then reconfigured and resolved, if only temporarily. In this sense, the artwork or art object could be seen as a vestige or relic of the performance enacted in the making and contemplation of the work; inherent in it are performative values.

I would dearly love for this blog to act as a conversation about the things I'm thinking about, and the things that you're thinking about, so please feel welcome to respond and share your interesting bits and pieces.