• Welcome
• The Galleries
  • Between Presence and Absence
  • Self Observed - Paintings
  • Self Observed - Drawings
  • Abstract Romance
  • "....inspired by 36 Crazyfists"
  • Presence
  • Holding the Moment
  • Theory
  • Conflict
• Exhibitions
• About Jason
• Contact Jason

'Self-Observed'

The work attempts to re-evaluate the typical male within contemporary painting. Drawing on aspects of the pressure and stress of modern living, work, emotional, sociological and psychological interaction, I explore the tension and conflict that can exist, but is not necessarily seen, between the body/self and external forces, stimuli and physical surroundings.

 

 

The role of the male figure within painting has, I feel, been marginalised to minority groups that needed a voice to regain representation.

The average male draws no attention within society but is defined by his attention and evolving dedication to the demands made of him (as a modern man). Historically he is a hunter gatherer and an emotional vessel with little voice of expression by his own choice. The evolving role of the male in contemporary society is ever changing, with little consideration for the physical and psychological impact this may have on the self.

Reflecting and echoing technological advances through new media on websites like YouTube where an image or video, irrespective of intent, has become a new method of self representation or expression, I have purposely used a DVD to record my movements which in turn inform my compositions. The relaxed manner, anonymity and almost nonchalance or awareness of the camera as an audience reflects the growing acceptance of society’s critical gaze and constant presence, but also retains a realist and humane momentary representation of the male figure.

My work and research attempts to document the relationship between the role of the modern male - his aspirations and expectations, his rapport with modern living and everyday objects - and that sense of self, both physically and psychologically. A constantly liquid shifting and tense dialogue between these two (entities) seemingly irreconcilable positions provides an interesting study for context, composition and technique. Each title in this series reinforces a pragmatism and mundanity in the work’s individual narrative, almost sidestepping the unrepresented silent majority within the male gender.

• Welcome
• The Galleries
  • Between Presence and Absence
  • Self Observed - Paintings
  • Self Observed - Drawings
  • Abstract Romance
  • "....inspired by 36 Crazyfists"
  • Presence
  • Holding the Moment
  • Theory
  • Conflict
• Exhibitions
• About Jason
• Contact Jason