Manningham Gallery Current Exhibition

MANNINGHAM GALLERY PROUDLY PRESENTS

 

STATES OF THE EMPIRE by ANTOINE TONIOLO

3-20 February, 2010

Contemporary Melbourne-based painter, Antoine Toniolo will reveal his latest work in an exhibition at the Manningham Gallery that explores his experiences and perceptions of contemporary America.

Toniolo’s solo exhibition States of the Empire features several paintings of the artist’s study of the differences and similarities of the American West and East Coasts, and will run from 3 to 20 February, 2010.

Whilst working in New York in September 2009 as an artist in residence at Point B Worklodge, Brooklyn, Toniolo felt like he was part of a Hollywood movie. Faces, streetscapes, water towers, blue skies and wobbly reflections were mixed with the constant chant of 'sell, sell, sell'. This exhibition captures and depicts the place that lies between Toniolo’s memories and experiences.

His obsession with America began as a child growing up in the 1960s where everything in America seemed bigger and brighter but by the 1970s Toniolo disagreed with much of the politics and economic circumstances of many Americans; however, he still remained fascinated with its iconography.

“It’s a show that’s driven by my different states of mind, emotions and experiences, from time spent chatting with street vendors in Harlem to conversations with local firemen about bushfires in the Burbank hills,” said Toniolo.

“Every experience tells of an America with heart and also hints of America’s own brand of darkness. In my work, I aim to capture the robust and diverse energies of this nation and its people, as I found them, bathed in light and shadow.”

Manningham Mayor, Cr Charles Pick, encouraged residents to view this wonderful exhibition.

“It’s a great opportunity to engage with a contemporary painter’s perspective on a familiar culture,” he said.

States of the Empire will be officially opened by Dr Ann McCulloch, Associate Professor, School of Communication and Creative Arts, Deakin University, on Wednesday 3 February from 6.00pm to 8.00pm at Manningham Gallery, Manningham Council Offices, 699 Doncaster Road, Doncaster.

Gallery Opening Hours

Tuesday to Friday: 11.00am to 5.00pm
Saturday: 2.00pm to 5.00pm. Admission is free.