The Work is not the Work is an experimental exhibition featuring six exquisitely formed ceramic vessels. The exterior of the vessels is covered in wafer thin overlapping petals of clay that demonstrate a new technique pioneered by Moseley.
The exhibition is part of Moseley’s research that tests the limits of what an artwork can be. These works pose the question as to whether an artist can claim someone else’s consciousness as their own artwork. The vessels themselves are not considered by the artist to be the work at all. In a conceptual twist, Moseley is claiming the consciousness of leading social media and technological moguls, such as Mark Zucherberg and Elon Musk as his artwork. Their respective consciousnesses are represented by the vessels in the gallery.
Moseley said: “The question as to whether it is possible to make the consciousness of another individual my art, emerged initially as a creative thought experiment and then through further research and consultation became an ever more viable proposition for creative expression.”
Moseley’s practice encompasses installation and ceramics and explores human rights and social concerns. Through symbolic and conceptual gestures his works aim to encourage a deeper consideration of our own attitudes and behaviour. This project encourages visitors to think about how much of themselves they may give away through social media networks.
Moseley holds a BA from Flinders University, South Australia and is currently undertaking a Master of Fine Art also at Flinders University.
26 Acland Street, St Kilda 3182
Ellis Moseley > The Work is not the Work
Exhibition dates: 27 January to 27 February 2022
Image credit:
Ellis Moseley, the vessel (1 of 3) accompanying the work The Consciousness of Sergey and Larry, 2021, terracotta and buff raku trachyte blend, mid fire quartz and turquoise stain, 60 x 20 x 20cm.
Image courtesy of the artist. Photograph: Wil Nolan
