But Men Do Not See It Opens at Standard Bank Gallery MyZA

Opening at the Standard Bank Gallery on 18 October, But Men Do Not See it: Kinetic works in the realm of astounding simplicity and wonder, introduces viewers to the extraordinary works of young Capetonian artist Justin Fiske.

Fiske weaves his fascination with mathematics, physics and simple mechanical principles together to create kinetic sculptures with a poetic touch and a Zen-like quality. Intended to evoke curiosity, his installations, manufactured from wood, metal, string and pebbles, encourage viewers to interrogate the complexities of motion and the mechanics which make this visible.

Fiske, an award-winning artist who is driven by a need to find simple mechanical solutions to issues of motion and suspension, makes intriguing and beautiful works that prompt the viewer to ask, “How is that done?” His installations, “mini experience machines”, as he calls them, are interactive, but not in the sense of virtual interaction, which is the way most people understand the term today. In many of his works, a handle is operated that allows an array of small pebbles, suspended at regular intervals on threads, to move in wave and helix patterns, creating a sort of dance. What he aims for is “the elegance of a simple mechanical experience”. Essentially then, Fiske’s work is a reaction against today’s digital, “over-technologised” world, to use his words, and a tri bute to the old analogue world and the machine age.

As with all artists, Fiske is driven by the need for self-realisation through creativity but unlike artists who are motivated by a desire to change social or political attitudes, he makes work for his own benefit, to get what he needs from it, and to satisfy his own interests. “What I do,” says Fiske, “is pure self-indulgence.” He is, however, very grateful that he happens to “make stuff that resonates with people”.

For his exhibition at the Standard Bank Gallery, Fiske has made a new body of works in keeping with his interest in motion, machines and suspension against gravity. Also included on the show are re-executions of some of his earlier works, including those previously shown on exhibitions in Japan and Switzerland. This is an exhibition which is bound to inspire, invoke playfulness and delight viewers of all ages.

This exhibition runs until 7 December 2013, at the Standard Bank Gallery, corner of Simmonds and Frederick Streets, Johannesburg. The Gallery (Tel: 011 631 4467) is open Mondays to Fridays, 08:00-16:30; on Saturdays, 09:00-13:00; and is closed on Sundays and public holidays. Admission is free. For further information about Standard Bank Gallery see www.standardbanks.co.za.

Exhibition: But Men Do Not See It: Kinetic works in the realm of astounding simplicity and wonder
Artist: Justin Fiske
Venue: Standard Bank Gallery
Dates: 18 October – 7 December 2013

Author: Fiona Gordon.