We are delighted to launch a new video format: the 1-54 Studio Visit Series, recorded by the artists themselves during confinement. Wherever they are in the world, artists that will be showcased as part of the next 1-54 online edition (available on Artsy, 6-30 May) and that live and work in the same place, will be giving us insights about their studio and the work they are working on.
To launch that series, we invited artist LR Vandy, represented by October Gallery (London, UK), to open her London studio door for us.
More about LR Vandy’s work:
In her sculptures, LR Vandy brings together both found and made objects in order to create new meaning. In her Hull series, Vandy transforms model boat hulls into ‘masks’, animating them with various materials, including fishing floats, porcupine quills and acupuncture needles. The hulls allude to the transportation of migrants as commodities. As masks they present a transformation of identity, drawing upon the tradition of talismans, charms and amulets. Representing aggressive protection, the materials Vandy applies to the hulls reference witchcraft/voodoo needles or nails, creating a tension throughout the works. The overall forms draw together the opposing aesthetics of attraction and repulsion; alluring and seemingly decorative pieces that on closer inspection provoke a sense of danger in the larger context of our world.
Vandy made her sell-out debut in London at 1-54, 2018, which was followed by her highly anticipated first solo show at October Gallery in June 2019. Her work is in a range of private collections and her piece European, was recently acquired by the British Museum.
A few words from artist:
“The Hull pieces which I transform into ‘masks’ are made from old existing model boat hulls, some of which are pond boats and others are racing boats. When I acquire the hulls, I examine them, deciding what processes they will go through. Whilst some require stripping and re-painting, I prefer to enhance their current condition and try to retain their original patina. After this process, once the hull is ready, I choose the materials that will animate it and transform the hull into a form that connotes protection. The process of ‘adorning’ the hull can involve soldering, patination, polishing and a lot of hole-drilling!
The hulls present the subject of transportation of humans commodities, this is as relevant today as it has ever been. In their new form they are a guardian: offering protection whilst simultaneously being confrontational in its other messages.”
Read and see more on October Gallery’s website here.
