ArtVals Hits Sydney Contemporary 2023: A Detour with Iris
Walking into Carriageworks for the Sydney Contemporary was like stepping onto the set of an avant-garde film. A dizzying array of colors, shapes, and let's be honest, a fair share of art snobs casually assessing the place. But among the ocean of art, there was Iris. She stood out like an A-list celebrity in a local bar, and we just couldn’t help but rubberneck every time we passed her by.
First glance at Iris, and it was clear - this was Sam Jinks’ craftsmanship. Hyper-realistic, almost eerie in its accuracy. You half expected her to start moving. The allure wasn't just in her lifelike form, but in the stories embedded within her. The majestic 24k gold wings, for instance, are a testament to Jinks' relentless pursuit of perfection. He wanted them bigger and bolder, but sometimes reality kicks in. Gold leaf was the compromise, and it worked brilliantly.
Wandering around the fair, we navigated through 95 galleries, taking in a whirlwind of art. The sheer scale of Carriageworks made the place feel like an artistic metropolis. Yet, no matter where we roamed, the roads seemed to lead back to Iris. Her backstory, rooted in Greek mythology as the “Messenger”, gave her an added layer of allure. She was more than just a statue; she was a conversation piece, a bridge between worlds.
The 2023 Sydney Contemporary was an impressive sprawl of artistic talent. Record-breaking, jam-packed, and occasionally overwhelming. Yet, amidst the frenzy, it was Iris who remained the anchor. Every piece of art, every gallery had its charm, but it was Jinks’ masterpiece that felt like the unofficial mascot of the event.
Four days flew by at Carriageworks, and the takeaway was clear: In a space teeming with creativity and flair, it was Iris - The Messenger who left the most lasting impression. In a world of art, she was the unforgettable headline.
