Emilee Sheldon (GB)
Text written by GHA
Emilee Sheldon’s full-black linocuts in large formats depict animals in an equally festive and absurd carnival. Toying with classic compositions of triptych and still life, traditionally linked to decay and impermanence, the British artist depicts surprising scenes of animals as both guests and culinary features of excessive feasts.
As the linoleum technique contains no shadings, but leaves a full, bold black colour, the works take on a distinct sharp-edged style, rich in detail and motion, containing both classical ornaments and a cartoonish playfulness. This creates a humoristic tension; upon a closer look, however, the seemingly joyful scenes get more complex and absurd. In one image we see animals wearing human gowns and props, while in another they constitute the ingredients of a luxury meal. Flames are a recurring motif, sometimes difficult to distinguish from the ornamented leaves, thereby mixing prosperity with fatality, leaving the party burning both metaphorically and literally.
In doing so, the work relates to contemporary themes and issues of excess, consumption and decadence. The lino prints of Sheldon thereby play out a dance macabre between carnage and carnival, allowing the viewer a cheerful toast with the merry beasts, but also giving us a taste of tomorrow’s hangover.
Find more works in our webshop >>>
Nothing To Sea Here Intro
