PROOF
Australia 1987

Not titled [lightening]. 2004
stencil
artist's proof , published state
Not signed. Not dated. Not titled. Not inscribed.
printed image (irregular) 36.0 (h) x 33.8 (w) cm
Gordon Darling Australia Pacific Print Fund 2007
National Gallery of Australia, Canberra
NGA 2007.70

In a range of artistic genres, including street art, there has been a recent trend of referencing retro nostalgia. In Proof’s work, Not titled [lightening], a dynamic scene depicts a female spellbound by the power of music.  Her smile, and subtle gesture, seem to express her delight in being suspended in what could be a dance party stimulated high.

The pop/retro sensibility of this work is readily apparent through the minimal colour palette and addition of powerful lightening bolt symbols.  Through an almost magnetic effect, the small lightening flashes seem drawn to the woman and appear to illuminate parts of her body, thereby creating drama through atmospheric contrasting shadows.

This work communicates the contemporary understanding that freedom of expression and dance are two aspects integral to the enjoyment of music.  All of those club kids and ravers out there will understand the euphoric chemical reaction that occurs when you’re ‘out there’ dancing!

Karie Wilson