C103
Review
Victor Sloan: A Broken Surface
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Victor Sloan, Borne Solinowo,1995, silver
gelatin print, dyes, inks, bleach and gouache, 67
cm x 111 cm; courtesy Riverbank
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A Broken Surface, an exhibition
of the work of Victor Sloan was recently on view at Riverbank
Arts Centre, Newbridge, Co. Kildare. The title reflects both
technique and theme. A fusion of photography and painting
creates the impact. Layered and textured images (no computer
graphics here) are overpainted: silver gelatin prints, toners,
dyes, inks, bleach, gouache. Subtle tonal effects contrast
with urgent, vital almost aggressive energies of expressionism.
From hundreds of photographs taken, the selection process
becomes critical. Sloan's portraits emerge, visually arresting,
historically significant - searing statements on his inherited
world - sinister images of surveillance, frustration, decay,
and menace, which seep insidiously through A Broken Surface
to the heart of humanity. Ferrygate, Dogs
and the trapped innocence of Soldier from Derry;
an impressionist portrayal of macabre antics in Sham fight
(with sword), Scarva; the hapless plight of Vietnamese
boat people and atmospheric Fireworks, Craigavon;
barely recognisable remains of a defaced poster of Michael
Gorbachev, Leader, Borne Sulinowo, and the ghostly
imagery of Russia's military: Slide, Borne Sulinowo,
in the aftermath of its occupation of Poland: Sloan's art
is sincere and exploratory - a jolting reminder of our human
culture impoverished by war and aggression.
Elaine Murphy is a Licentiate,
London Guildhall School of Music & Drama(L.G.S.M.); a
poet/lecturer; and organiser of The Gerard Manley Hopkins
Society's Annual International Summer School.
Victor Sloan: A Broken Surface,
Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge, February/March 2003
