Drawing from nature and using recycled materials, this work continues my exploration of the rhythm and texture of repetition and the visual and emotional responses this evokes. I am trying to create a sense of writhing organic movement with this work and the use of Mills & Boon novels (Dangerous Entanglement is one of the book titles used) adds a layer of meaning by evoking that world of overblown romanticism and soft porn.
Having studied sculpture at the University of South Australia, Phil has pursued his art practice over the last 25 years traversing sculpture, printmaking and performance. He is one half of "Norm and Elsie's Art Safari"; a curatorial performance art work which was created for the Junction Arts Festival in Launceston and has appeared at many events including Adelaide Festival, Natimuk Fringe and the Royal Melbourne Show.
Based in southwest Victoria, Phil has exhibited regularly with the Portland Bay Press and at the Portland Arts Centre and has had work exhibited in the Riddoch Gallery, Mt Gambier SA.
He has participated in various community projects, including Five Whales (for Portland's Upwelling Festival) and In Residence (Moyne Shire, Port Fairy) and has work acquired by the cultural collection of the Glenelg Shire who also, with assistance of the Flood Relief Fund commissioned his sculptural flood marker in Casterton, Victoria.
In recent years Phil has focused on his sculptural practice, work that explores the beauty and complexity of repetition, a layering that talks of one thing but resonates more broadly as a reflection on nature. Phil currently has works exhibited at the Wishart Gallery, Port Fairy.
Mills and Boon novels, steel, copper wire, lacquer
60 x 30 x 30 cm
Finalist
Phil Cousins, in conversation with Professor Ian Howard, discusses his work Dangerous Entanglement and answers questions from the audience. Recorded on 15 October 2016 at the exhibition.
Judges of the 2016 Woollahra Small Sculpture Prize: Wendy Whiteley OAM (Ambassador for the visual arts), Rhonda Davis (Senior Curator at Macquarie University Art Gallery) and Barry Keldoulis (CEO and Group Fairs Director of Art Fairs Australia).
Download PDF (780 KB)