Neighbourhood Watch - work by Michael O'Brien

neighbourhood watch: something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue

by Barp, poses questions about where and how we live.

The works are mixed media combining painting and collage. Images of brightly coloured settings contain surprising figures and objects juxtaposed in various landscapes, to present perplexing narratives that lead an audience to think about social issues and behaviours.

Sharp angles and highlighted lines present clarity with a strong contrast to the content of the works that illicit a visceral response from audiences.

Some images are appropriated from different cultures and represent diversity and a sense of cultural cohesion while others are responses to world events, particularly violence and wars that arise from culture clashes of the most devastating kind. 

Pathos is therefore another feature of this exhibition.

Barp (aka Michael O’Brien), a student at the National Art School in Sydney, worked as a barrister for 36 years before retiring in 2022. This is his first exhibition.                

16-22 April - 11am to 6pm

Opening - Thursday 16th 4pm to 7pm