Michael Barnes

Profile I
Stone and Photoplate; Lithographic Pencil
6 Runs
510mm x 410mm
2004

My work contains a great amount of personal narrative and metaphor. While personal meaning is embedded in the imagery, I am particularly fascinated with narratives that evolve naturally from the mind; from the subconscious. I enjoy the process of allowing the narrative and imagery to unfold as I create, versus working with a pre-conceived plan. I strive to create images that pose psychological dilemmas and create mysteries in which the viewer is challenged to solve and or interpret.

The images that emerge from my imagination often include figures, sometimes human, sometimes genetically or physically mutated or altered beasts that are often seen interacting with surreal or ambiguous environments. Their purpose and existence are cloaked in mystery. They are frequently conducting mundane, seemingly mindless tasks that pose questions for the viewer as to the story or narrative.

I work primarily in lithography for the love of the medium and for what it can achieve visually. There is nothing more seductive than drawing on limestone and as attractive as the quality of the mark that is produced. It is a quality that I do not feel I can achieve through any other medium.

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