Visually Curious

Evan Penny

L. Faux: Tri-X, 2001

123 x 153 x 26 cm

polyester resin, pigment, hair

This is my favorite of his works. This is not in the current show at the Art Gallery of Ontario, although there is a related piece that treats the “triple exposure” as a colour separation — L. Faux: CMYK.  I find that version a bit obvious and overwrought. This one, however, makes your eyes tingle. While the optical effect is stunning, I find that the technique also has metaphorical pull.  I see a grieving woman who is coming apart, her edges are leaking, she is losing her centre. I understand this feeling. Furthermore, it makes me question my own vision, as my eyes struggle to pin her down. It is almost like I am witnessing her grief through my own tears.