MKTICKS looks to the sky for solo exhibition entitled ‘Morning Star’
‘Morning Star’ is the second solo exhibition of Boorloo-based multi-disciplinary artist, MKTICKS, at Cheap Tongue Gallery in Walyalup, Western Australia.
Nine pieces, drawn with fine line pencil strokes contrasting beside thick, shimmering oil pastel and pigment stick, use the star as a symbol to spark an emotional response. The star as image is used to challenge the viewer to reflect, review perspective, and encourage connection both internally and externally. This intention is continued through custom framing, a collaboration between MKTICKS and local framers, Case Frames, which resulted in a glittering, lacquered finish over raw Tasmanian Oak frames.
Conceptually the exhibition focuses on the idea of guardian angels and that we are never truly alone in the world. This stems from the artist’s own spiritual relationship with the stars and the strong sense of connectedness felt with those passed before us when looking at the early morning sky, moon, and stars.
The exhibition space housed floral arrangements predominantly containing Kangaroo Paws and Acacia leaves, hand collected from the artist’s garden and curated on site in vessels for the exhibition. Nature is a constant inspiration to them, and MKTICKS explains it was important to have a sense of grounding within the space; the artworks themselves gesture upwards to the sky and stars, while the planting arrangements signal downward to yourself in this human moment. Some of the vessels were old juice jars kept by their grandparents, a small but intentional detail that personally shifted the energy of the space into an even stronger connection between the ephemeral and physical realms.
Unexpected colour profiles and irregularly-shaped stars unlock the artist’s own memories of children’s books read long ago with magical connotations.
MKTICKS explains, “The detailed linework of my drawings represent a passage of time, meditativeness and sense of quiet, qualities I hope are felt by the viewer”.
‘Morning Star’ exhibition was held at Cheap Tongue Gallery in Walyalup, Western Australia on the 7th–13th December 2024.
@mkticks, MKTICKS.com