Our perspectives on ethnology, consumerism and culture will be spun on their collective heads at the end of this month when Brian Jungen arrives back in Vancouver with his New York exhibition in tow. At first glance, his work seems more fitting in a Museum of Natural History: whale skeletons suspended from the ceiling; glass cases displaying First Nations ceremonial masks. On second look, one realizes that these artifacts have been created entirely out of materials from our own disposable consumerist culture. The masks are skinned and splayed Nike basketball shoes; the whales bones no more than backyard plastic chairs. Everyday objects become sacred while at the same time, the mythical properties of nature and tradition are suddenly cut down to size.
Jungen has been receiving a great deal of exposure as of late, the New York show certainly serving as the pinnacle of this assertive rise. Vancouver will no doubt welcome him back in full prodigal son fashion. This is stimulating and important work that should not be missed. It will be on display at the Vancouver Art Gallery from January 28 to April 30, 2006.
Posted by Kevin Broome
Tags: Art
