X Series for the month of January 2022
Rae West continues to explore her X series this summer.
To create these statement pieces, West combines 24ct gilded gold leaf with free poured resin. The process is a fine balance between controlling the outcome and allowing the unique qualities of the liquid resin to flow into place by chance.
The X gesture is a recurring motif for the artist and has a number of interpretations and cultural connections. The X is a universal form, it implies transcendence, transformation, love and also a kiss. The subject of the ‘kiss’ or love has been interpreted by artists for centuries in a plethora of ways. For Rae West distilling this notion to its absolute essence, an X on an O, is a pure expression of a large idea.
Pictured image: Rae West, “Juicy Kiss- Deep Dive”, Resin and Gold Leaf on Board, 1000 x 1000mm, 2021 in situ, with Francia Smeets, “Waiting” Bird Series- Kingfisher (Kotare), Cast Glass on Timber Plinth, Steel Base, 2021, 130cm height x 30cm width x 30cm depth in the foreground.