By John Gatip
2023
oil on timber
dimensions variable - set of five sculptures
(sculpture A – 12x3x21.5cm, sculpture B – 12x12x9cm, sculpture C – 6x6x19cm, sculpture D – 7.4x6x12cm, sculpture E – 6x3x25cm)
ARTIST STATEMENT
"This group of five mini sculptures explores the vibrant intersection of architecture and childlike wonder. Through a palette of vivid colours and playful forms, the blocks transform into joyful compositions. Taking inspiration from Friedrich Froebel’s iconic blocks for educating children, these colourful structures invite viewers to rediscover the whimsy of childhood and the limitless potential of art and design."
BIO
The works of John Gatip span within the transection of art and architecture.
He explores through the mode of sculpture, painting, and art installations. His work derives from the need to narrate the immediate, record his introspections and create his explorations. Colour and geometry are prominent visual language where they intermingle and express John’s thoughts in abstracted form. Through these two principles, layers of narrative are laced with architectural metaphors, and symbolism.
John celebrates his heritage as a Filipino born Australian and uses his cultural upbringing as part of his storytelling. He is a registered architect in Victoria, Australia and co-led Master of Architecture Design Studios at the Melbourne School of Design. John’s work has been exhibited in galleries locally in Australia as well as Internationally. His work has been published in magazines such as Houses and Inside Out. In 2023, John’s works were shortlisted for Omnia Art Prize and Yering Station Sculpture Art Prize.