THISMIGHTBEFUN By Saxon Quinn
Saxon Quinn’s latest solo exhibition, THISMIGHTBEFUN, at At the Above gallery, invites the viewer to unpick what is there or impart what isn’t into the work – layering hues, symbols and textures to create works that sway from the intentional to the unrestrained.
Words: Hande Renshaw I Photography: Courtesy of At The Above
Gestural and relaxed his drawings mimic the freedom of a child’s, an approach which Saxon Quinn has honed over the years. Photo: Courtesy of At The Above
Northern Rivers -based mixed media artist Saxon Quinn. Photo: Courtesy of At The Above
THISMIGHTBEFUN 1 by Saxon Quinn. Photo: Courtesy of At The Above
“I’ve always loved the freedom of children’s drawings... their imagination. As an adult you self-censor so much more so it’s very difficult to get that stroke – we over analyze the mark so much.”
Detail of Three Stooges by Saxon Quinn. Photo: Courtesy of At The Above
Photo: Courtesy of At The Above
Northern Rivers -based mixed media artist Saxon Quinn finds inspiration in the rough, the worn, and the resilient aspects of life. His artistic journey began in the vibrant atmosphere of his upbringing, surrounded by creativity and an artist mother who sparked his desire to create. As he grew older, he began sketching, painting and experimenting with clay, at times accidentally defacing her works in the process.
Saxon’s artwork transcends traditional boundaries, incorporating elements of mixed media to create captivating pieces that challenge viewers to question preconceived notions, often featuring unconventional textures and repurposed materials that have experienced the test of time.
Through his work, Saxon seeks to celebrate the stories of these resilient materials, just as he cherishes his own journey of self-discovery and artistic development, primarily using canvas, graphite and paint, layering hues, symbols and textures to create works that sway from the intentional to the unrestrained, the minimalist to the uninhibited.
THISMIGHTBEFUN, Saxon’s latest solo exhibition at At The Above gallery, is an articulation of memory, taste and experience; Saxon’s practice lays bare the human experience where he explores both the good and the bad. Symbols of failure and self-doubt swim alongside positive memories and tokens of joy.
Saxon has perfected his approach over time, creating drawings that imitate the carefree nature of a child's artwork. ‘I’ve always loved the freedom of children’s drawings... their imagination. As an adult you self-censor so much more so it’s very difficult to get that stroke – we over analyze the mark so much,’ he shares.
The artist’s work is not intended to teach or convey a specific message. Instead, it resembles symbols or ancient writings, like runes or hieroglyphs. Each piece holds significance, and it’s left to the viewer to interpret and extract meaning from the artwork, whether by deciphering what is presented or adding their own interpretation.
At The Above
198 Gertrude street,
Fitzroy VIC
Exhibition dates:
Saturday, November 11 - Sunday, November 26