24 February – 19 May 2024
Linden New Art announces the opening of Aaron Christopher Rees’ exhibition Mirage, an exploration of the poetics of optics and the expanded field of photography.
Mirage immerses the Linden Atrium spaces in a transformative red spectrum of light, achieved using photographic filters. This unique experience challenges the viewer’s perception, as the biological response to red light alters their visual encounter with the space. Rees complements this sensory experience with a series of site-specific darkroom prints that respond to the Atrium, visualising spatial interventions through the medium of film.
The exhibition raises profound questions about the idealization of sight, the construction of self as an expert observer, and our relationship with the ever-present hyper object – the sun. Rees’ video works delve into entoptic phenomena, allowing viewers to experience the eye seeing itself, furthering this intriguing exploration.
Aaron Christopher Rees is a Melbourne-based artist renowned for his innovative work in photography and moving image. His practice delves into our embodied experiences and investigates how visual technologies like cameras influence and reshape these experiences. His work has been exhibited both nationally and internationally, with notable recent exhibitions including Firmament at NAP Contemporary, States of Disruption at the Centre for Contemporary Photography and Sleep walker at the NGV.
Image credit: Aaron Christopher Rees, Firmament, Installation view, NAP Contemporary Art Gallery, Mildura, 2022.
Public Programs
Meet the Artist
Engage in a thoughtful conversation with Aaron Christopher Rees and Dr Vincent Alessi, Director of Linden New Art, as they unravel the complex themes behind Mirage. 20 April 1-2pm. FREE
Curator’s Tour
Dr Vincent Alessi is giving an exclusive tour of the current exhibitions, offering unique insights into the works of both Jill Orr and Aaron Christopher Rees. 12 May 1-2pm. Admission is free, but spots are limited.
Linden New Art
Linden New Art supports brave new art by mid-career artists and engages visitors through inspiring, thought-provoking exhibitions of new work. Linden New Art supports the creation and exhibition of courageous new art by mid-career artists; it exhibits new works that inspire, provoke and contribute to conversations and debate; it advances artists’ careers through mentoring, connections and exposure; it offers a welcoming space where artists, enthusiasts and the community come together in a stunning site of historical and cultural significance; it celebrates First Nations culture and heritage; and it builds upon a proud heritage of enriching the cultural fabric of St Kilda, Melbourne and Victoria.
Linden New Art
Bunurong Boon Wurrung Country
26 Acland Street St Kilda VIC 3182
https://www.lindenarts.org/exhibitions/
