Interiors

 Solo exhibition: Michael Reid Northern Beaches 29 May – 9 June, 2024

'Interiors' delves into the intricate psychology of memory, exploring how we construct narratives from fragmented recollections. Memories, often replayed unconsciously, can shape our understanding of self and reality, blurring the lines between truth and interpretation. Through this collection, I challenge the notion of unquestioned memories and the stories we repeatedly replay in our minds.

To visualise this, I drew on imagery from interior design, architecture and fashion as reflections of the way we present ourselves to the world. This imagery was cut up, reconstructed and abstracted, representing the layers of manipulated memories that we construct and unconsciously live by.

In terms of technique, I employ drawing and acrylic under-painting as a foundational layer, adding depth, texture and form, and then layer oil pigment sticks and oil pastels to introduce a dynamic interplay of colour and materiality. This deliberate juxtaposition of complementary colours and varied mediums, symbolises the complexity and sometimes conflicting realities within our memories. The vibrant hues serve as a visual catalyst, highlighting the subconscious narratives we weave, often without conscious awareness.

Through this artistic exploration, I aim to illuminate the nuanced layers of human memory, inviting viewers to reconsider their own ‘interior’ and the inherent subjectivity of personal history.

"Toni Vallance was among the star discoveries from last year’s National Emerging Art Prize.

Specially chosen by NEAP curator Amber Creswell Bell for the 2023 ACB Selects line-up, Vallance arrives at the gallery with Interiors – a vibrant and ultra-stylish suite of paintings that beautifully deploys colour, texture and dimensionality through a layered and energetic approach to abstract mark-making.

​​​​​​Throughout Interiors, dazzling bursts of expressive verve play out alongside moments of elegant restraint, with each composition resolving these varied tempos with appealing, understated equipoise.

A master colourist, Vallance’s new series displays a highly original, eye-catching palette in which striking primary hues are tempered by softer pastels and sweeps of negative space. Her deceptively simple, exquisitely constructed compositions bring a jolt of ebullience, vitality and fashionable panache to their surroundings, delighting the eye by darting between boldly expressive and more muted painterly rhythms." – Michael Reid Northern Beaches 

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To enquire about these works, please contact Michael Reid Northern Beaches on northernbeaches@michaelreid.com.au