Lillian Quick
James Sheahan Catholic High School
THE METASTASES JOURNEY OF UNCLE JIM
Sculpture
Copper sulphate crystals, copper (II) sulphate, zinc sulphate, hydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid, potassium chloride, walking cane, wire, recycled wooden door, recycled metal, copper, galvanised steel, 6 mm rod, white wine vinegar, water
The Metastases Journey of Uncle Jim represents the vulnerability, mortality, chemical and physical transformation of the human body as it experiences and battles the corrosive nature of cancer. The disfiguring and scarring of the human body are given expression through the stooping form, an assemblage of rusted and corroded repurposed metal, weathered wood and personal objects. My intent in including these personal items – the walking stick, weathered boots and hanging crucifix – was to invite the audience to consider the personal relationship between faith and suffering, and the courageous battle of loved ones who have a cancer diagnosis.
My artmaking practice has been influenced by the study and interpretation of the following artists: Henry Moore, Pablo Picasso, David Smith.
Marker's Commentary
This highly refined sculpture of found objects creates a portrait in The Metastases Journey of Uncle Jim, reflecting on his experiences battling cancer. In an exploration of mortality and vulnerability, the inclusion of authentic personal relics creates an emotionally charged and intimate depiction, which portray a sophisticated understanding of life memories. His crucifix hangs in a void, inviting the audience to consider religious faith, suffering and imminent death. There are many subtle uses of materials, which went through chemical and physical processes of transfiguration, echoing radiography and surgery. Chemicals were etched into metal surfaces to represent the corrosive aspect of cancer that ravages both spirit and body. This body of work is distinguished by a sophisticated and multilayered interconnection of the student’s material and conceptual practice. This is achieved through the exploration of the transformations of objects and the treatment of surfaces to create a highly meaningful and sensitive sculpture.