Numbering Stars by Jo Chew

— Opening reception: 6-8 pm, 1st June —

Numbering Stars is the first of two exhibitions as part of a year-long fellowship Jo Chew received from ADM. Through a contemporary interpretation, Jo Chew refers to the ancient story of Abraham for this series to explore ideas of hope and optimism amid vulnerability and despair – in part as a reaction to current world concerns. Several of the works in this exhibition have been uniquely achieved through a method of constructing compositions influenced by stage design.

“This method involves making small collages and dioramas out of paper and card, often containing art-historical references, from which to draft the bigger paintings. Throwing these disparate and awkward shapes and objects together signifies the messy and broken reality of life, but through the act of painting, the saturation of colour and boldness of line gives these fragile singular elements weight and unity.” – Jo Chew

Numbering Stars is Jo Chew’s first solo exhibition in Sydney. Her previous exhibitions include Cain and It’s Gonna be (Alright) at Despard Gallery in Hobart.