Leroy D'Souza
Killara High School
THE NEW AURA
Designed Objects
Perspex, mirrored acrylic
My body of work represents the birth of a new era where dynamic and limitless thinking will shape the future of architecture. Made with laser-cut technology, my works are multi-dimensional, referencing their contemporary context as well as fragments of the past. They explore the dramatic interplay between space and light, with the intent that their abstract forms and delicate shadows create a powerful presence from the auras of individuals, structures and the environment. Powerful yet weightless, reflections of both the viewer and the surrounding landscape can be seen in my work, inspiring a sense of harmony and awareness.
My artmaking practice has been influenced by the study and interpretation of the following artists: Edoardo Tresoldi, Lucien Hervé, Anish Kapoor, Do Ho Suh, Yuriy Bel’mesov, Griselda Duch.
Marker's Commentary
As a designed object, The New Aura is ambitious and experimental. Clearly versed in the traditions of architectural practice, the work draws on design principles of Modern architecture combined with purposeful contemporary engineering to construct a series of four dynamic architecturally inspired forms that simultaneously mimic and contest the landscape. Material and conceptual practice is synthesised in a deliberate and understood presentation that elaborates on the complex ideas of duality present within the forms: organic vs geometric, natural vs manmade, positive vs negative, object vs atmosphere, light vs dark and warm vs cool. Physical beauty is conveyed through the highly resolved properties of the work and by the seamless construction of the objects as their reflective acrylic (Perspex) surfaces establish a direct link with their immediate environment. A highly refined and sustained investigation of photographic practice is evident through exemplary camera craft and post production techniques. The photographic work elaborates on the dynamic possibilities of the forms through oblique views, that simultaneously disguise or tease the landscape through dynamic fragmentation.