Spectra

Spectra, 2024, Installation View, Lennox St. Gallery. Images by Christian Capurro.

Sean McDowell’s solo-exhibition Spectra at Lennox St. Gallery has been inspired by his interests in psychology, biology and microscopy - to fractal geometry, geology, neuroscience and spirituality. The show features a collection of new oil paintings and drawings that continue the artist’s ongoing engagement with fabrication techniques and the poetics of materials.

Consisting of intricate patterns, organic shapes and energetic line networks, McDowell’s work is an idiosyncratic portrayal of the microscopic cells that make up the basic structural and functional units of all carbon based lifeforms. Rendered through the application of translucent glazes, McDowell’s visual language uses contrasting colours, depth, texture and scale to evoke various sensual, emotional and psychological states.

Approached through lived experiences and collective narratives of trauma, disease and illness, Spectra offers a glimpse into the awe-inspiring world of micro-organisms that exist within and surround us every day. Blending together representation and abstraction, the artworks have been inspired by found microscopic images of human and plant cells.

Resembling biological matter - ranging from healthy to deteriorating - he is fascinated with the relationship between micro and macro, where fractals repeat self-similarly. Depicting magnified imagery of blood, skin, molecules and synapses, McDowell invites us to consider our complex relationship to ourselves and the natural world.

Exhibition Dates: September 11 - 29, 2024

Opening Event: September 12, 6 - 8pm

322-324 Lennox St. Richmond, 3121, Victoria