PAULINE REYNOLDS:

UNDERFOOT

Conceptual artist Douglas Huebler had written a statement in 1970 that “The world is full of objects, more or less interesting; I do not wish to add any more. I prefer, simply, to state the existence of things in terms of time and place.'' These words echo through the works of Pauline Reynolds in her first solo exhibition, “Underfoot”.

Here, Reynolds gathers discarded and found objects to rearrange them as intimate narratives that depict musings on modern life. From sleek water bottles to blocky cardboard boxes, today’s world rests in the production of ephemera that responds to our desire for convenience. And so, when these materials no longer serve their initial purpose, what happens to them?

In “Underfoot”, the artist meticulously and attentively breathes life into these objects. Reynolds forms a relationship with the materials as she takes on the process of collecting and re-assembling them. There is beauty inside burnt and dusty piles of paper and wood. Small rocks and torn pieces of fabric are now part of an image that allows us to re-evaluate our treatment of things. Magic exists in the things we set aside; they are merely waiting to be found.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Pauline Reynolds has been experimenting with different modes of expression since girlhood. Her works involve patchwork of worn and distressed materials, which are then arranged to highlight the unique, spectacular patterns and textures that each one develops when they are simply allowed to come apart and then, assembled again. A former creative executive for a production house, Reynolds’ art practice focuses on the use of mixed media in assemblages, collages, sculptures, and installations. “Underfoot” is her first solo exhibition.