Artist Statement (detail), 2010, wax seal in artist’s handwriting on paper envelope with unique message sealed inside, 35 x 29 x 5.5 cm (framed), multiple 2/12
As a response to our desire for answers and absolutes, the work-on-paper Artist Statement is a framed envelope with Stellmach’s handwritten text (“That’s confidential and kind of magic”) imprinted onto a black wax seal. Inside the sealed envelope is a personal message from the artist. Or is there? Opening the envelope destroys the artwork and renders it worthless on the art market. The work was produced as part of Stellmach’s major project, Complete Burning Away – The Ashes of Kurt Cobain, a suite of ten works interrogating the public ownership of celebrities while critiquing the role of the artist, the media and contemporary art in society. “That’s confidential and kind of magic” is not only a response to the oft asked question, “How did the artist acquire the ashes of the deceased rockstar?” but also a critique on the overintellectualization of art.
GROUP EXHIBITION – works on paper (from Complete Burning Away) |
June 17 – July 3, 2011 | Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts Australia
Artist Statement, 2010, wax seal in artist’s handwriting on paper envelope with unique message sealed inside, 35 x 29 x 5.5 cm (framed), multiple 1/12 + 2AP
Installation view, Artist Statement, work-on-paper, 35 x 29 x 5.5 cm (framed), multiple 1/12 at PICA, Perth, 2010 (as part of Stellmach’s solo show Complete Burning Away)
See WORKS for more information.
NATASCHA STELLMACH 