Multidisciplinary artist Ian Strange is known for his large-scale exhibitions that unsettle our understanding of the home. What started as an autobiographical interest has swelled to encompass investigations into our universal needs for shelter and safety, as well as financial and psychological security. He is a master of conceptualising and executing super-sized artworks – in Australia and abroad – that combine installation, film and photography.
Ian’s latest work, titled ‘Light Intersections II’ from the Intersections series, has recently landed in Surry Hills as part of the City of Sydney’s Art & About program. The artwork sees 120 metres of LED light beams dramatically break through a graffiti-tagged terrace house. The light is used to draw attention to the Victorian architecture of the Marlborough Street terrace, while emphasising its dilapidated condition and the potential loss of built heritage.
‘Intersections’ by Ian Strange in Sydney
“The lines of light in Intersections are an attempt to place abstracted perspective lines back into the environment,” Ian says. “These drawn perspective lines don’t appear in nature, but are staples in both painting, drawing, and architecture, used as a way of containing, representing, and changing the natural environment.”
Appearing to pierce walls, floors and the ceiling, the installation provides a spectacular light show for city dwellers enjoying essential exercise during the recently declared Covid lockdown. “Intersections is designed to be seen from different perspectives,’ Ian adds. “People can photograph it themselves and interact with it. That is one of the wonderful things about creating work in public spaces. Once you make it, the ways people engage with it becomes part of the work.”
‘Light Intersections II’ was created in collaboration with OFFICE, Scoundrel Projects and Ian Strange Studios. Commissioned by the City of Sydney and its Art & About public art program, the installation is available to view until July 4. Visitors to the location should follow the latest health advice during the region’s Covid-induced lockdown. Visit NSW Health for more information.
artandabout.com.au; ianstrange.com
It’s exciting the work will be in a high traffic location so people can photograph it themselves and interact with it.
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