Brian Robinson's art is a captivating journey through the everyday magic that surrounds us, with a deep dive into the cosmos and Indigenous culture. The artist, a Torres Strait Islander with Scottish and Filipino heritage, explores the multilayered quality of his work through a range of mediums, from illustration and printmaking to sculpture and public art installations. His show, Multiverse, currently on display at Newcastle Art Gallery, encapsulates this multifaceted approach, drawing on Indigenous storytelling, biblical narratives, historical references, and pop culture.
What makes Robinson's art particularly fascinating is his ability to blend the traditional with the contemporary. He starts with an Indigenous storytelling base and adds layers of biblical, historical, and personal humor, creating a unique and captivating narrative. This approach is evident in his public art installations, such as Woven Fish and Citizens Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, which combine traditional Torres Strait motifs with pop culture icons in innovative ways.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Robinson's work is his exploration of everyday magic. In his vinylcut print Abracadabra, he channels the magic of everyday life, drawing on objects from the University of Newcastle's scientific collection, traditional Torres Strait Islander culture, biblical stories, and pop culture. The print features a series of shelves holding a variety of weird and wonderful objects, including the carapace of a hawksbill turtle, traditional charms, and references to Harry Potter, Shrek, Back to the Future, and the Marvel universe.
From my perspective, what makes Robinson's art so compelling is his ability to connect the past and the present, the traditional and the contemporary. He draws on the ancient art of carving into turtle shell and wooden masks, as well as the intricate patternation of traditional Torres Strait design known as minaral, to create prints that are both technically skilled and visually stunning. His use of black space is masterful, creating a beautiful balance that sets his work apart.
In my opinion, Robinson's art is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of art to connect us to our past, present, and future. His work invites us to explore the everyday magic that surrounds us, and to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the world around us. The Multiverse show at Newcastle Art Gallery is a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary Indigenous art and the power of storytelling.
