Opening Reception: Friday, February 1, 2013, 8 – 10 p.m.
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY CANADIAN ART
Visitors in front of Graham Dolphin, Wall (Walk in Silence), 2012
Opening night for Are You Alright? was busy with the local art community trying to get a glimpse of what was happening on the British scene. Toronto artist, Derek Mainella co-curated the exhibition with British artist, Elizabeth Eamer and was a good way to introduce Canadians to the British scene while also getting British artists an opportunity to exhibit in Toronto and meet the community here.
British Artist, Harry Burden
Harry Burden‘s installation used the dirt from the MOCCA floor to create a wall painting with colourful dyed mops tied in front.
Harry Burden, Dirty Fucking Hippies, (detail) 2012.
Artist James Unsworth had a link of colourful sausages going up the wall. A small peep hole revealed a video loop as part of the work (Mayonaise Head).
British Artist, James Unsworth
James Unsworth, I Think of Demons, 2009.
Co-curator Elizabeth Eamer also had work in the exhibition.
British Artist Curator Elizabeth Eamer
Many of the artists had collaborated together before in Britain.
Jonathan Baldock, Pierrot, installation view, 2011
Justin Mortimer, Perimeter, 2012
The evening was well attended by the Toronto art scene and fashion crowd and at times as usual at such openings it was difficult to get the best view of art works on display because of being drawn into conversations and catching up with friends. As usual a fun night at MOCCA and a good taste of what the Brits have to offer.
The show is open February 1 – March 24, 2013 at MOCCA, 952 Queen Street West. Gallery hours: Tues–Sun 11 –6 p.m.
Text and photo: Phil Anderson