LOTTIE DAVIES – MEMORIES AND NIGHTMARES
2013-04-08Lottie Davies work is concerned with stories and personal histories, the tales and myths we use to structure our lives: memories, life-stories and beliefs. She takes inspiration from classical and modern painting, cinema and theatre as well as the imaginary worlds of literature.
Her Elaborately staged scenes are the visual manifestation memories and nightmares, one of her own the day my brother was born and others gleaned from other people. The multiplicity of the layering in her photographs through analogy, metaphor and physical placement gives each image the possibility of numerous interpretations. Self-fulfilling prophecies can often have a rippling effect as the series has delighted audiences throughout the world, whom have re-interpreted and projected their own histories within her imagery.
These are not quiet pleasant photographs to glance upon. They are bold, strong – intensely intriguing – parodies worthy of prolonged viewing. Davies images are for the strong willed, confident individual who is not afraid to face their demons. Colour is key to her work; using bold imaginative strokes she wields the lens towards her meticulously constructed tableaux. Furniture, costume and props are found to build each individual set around her models that are varied and striking in equal measure. Intricate planning and careful placement render her work truly mesmerizing. Strong emerald greens, reds and turquoise feature throughout which immediately grab our attention as the subtleties of detail come into view, whether it be the strange impossible reflection in a mirror or the rocking horse in a maternity ward.
Exhibition runs through till May 5th, 2013
London Metropolitan University
Central House
59-63 Whitechapel High Street
London
E1 7PF
