Just like a lot of modern art, Entry by Tranquilization Only, a major new commission work by Mike Parr at Campbelltown Arts Centre, seeks to challenge the viewer – to rattle his or her cage.
Entry by Tranquilization Only wants to start a conversation about the role of the artist in a post modern world.
This exhibition at Campbelltown features a major installation that transforms the gallery space to create a challenging, yet unexpected experience, encouraging the audience to move through the space and experience the artwork physically.
Which is typical of Parr, an Australian artist who maintains a strong international presence with his iconic performative, video and print-media artworks.
His work is reactive and he engages his audience to respond both physically and emotionally.
Endurance and embodiment is strongly threaded throughout Parr’s practice.
Entry by Tranquilization Only is a response, reaction and profound statement about the role of the artist and the artwork.
“This conceptual work responds to the idea of removing the artist and artwork from the gallery setting, with audience experience central to the work,’’ says Michael Dagostino, the director of Campbelltown Arts Centre.
“Parr leads viewers on an exploration, while immersing them in a transitory experience,’’ Dagostino says.
“Each day the exhibition title changes; this physical process alters the experience while streaming Mike’s unconscious thoughts.’’
Entry by Tranquilization Only is a challenging artwork, saturated in conceptual rigour and architectural design encouraging audiences to think beyond the social expectations of contemporary art to lead a new conversation about the role of the artist.
SNAPSHOT
Mike Parr – Entry by Tranquilization Only
Continues until October 16
Closing event – 6pm October 14
Campbelltown Arts Centre – open daily from 10am to 4pm.
