About the exhibition: Vision 2020
Vision 2020 is an eye-catching collection of forty, 20x20in (50x50cm) textile works curated by Brenda Gael Smith from Copacabana, NSW. The exhibition explores illusions, vistas and anatomy and will be on at Rusten House Art Centre until 29 May 2021.
Curator’s Statement:
Two key factors assist in creating a cohesive exhibition – a unifying theme and a uniform size. In planning this exhibition, I set the size first and the theme quickly followed.
A 50x50cm square is a refreshing contrast to the banner format of my previous touring exhibitions and still fits in a suitcase. When I converted the dimensions into inches, I realised that 50x50cm is approximately 20x20inches. The year 2020 was coming up. From 2020, it was an easy step to the theme of “vision” with the optional prompt of “the power of sight: the art of seeing”.
I received 107 entries and selected 40 textile works (20 + 20!) for exhibition. My curatorial approach is to present the works in pairs that complement one another. When they are side by side, they resemble a set of eyes.
From dreams to vistas, anatomical studies to optical illusions, the exhibition explores the theme of vision from different angles. Eye imagery dominates and many works highlight the importance of eye health and vision care, especially in having a vibrant creative life. I embrace this focus. 90% of blindness or vision impairment is preventable or treatable. Prioritising eye health brings creative, social and economic benefits.
