Mat Collishaw: Petrichor
Where nature and illusion converge.
Contemporary artist Mat Collishaw debuts new work alongside existing pieces in this exhibition at Kew.
Drawing on an array of evocative imagery from the natural world, Petrichor will showcase a variety of pioneering techniques and explore the relationship between art and nature, including its ability to impact the way in which we see the world around us.
Alluvion
With their UK premiere at Kew Gardens, this series draws inspiration from 17thcentury still life paintings of flowers and evolution. Taking the appearance of several species of insect, they were generated using carefully moderated AI. These innovative paintings reverse the insect/flower relationship in a potent visual metaphor for human interaction with 21stcentury technology.
Even to the End
This large-scale, projected work receives its UK premiere as part of this exhibition. Immerse yourself in the 9-minute sequence inspired by the innovation of the Wardian Case and the transportation of plant specimens around the globe. Even to the End has been created in collaboration with video artists based in Ukraine and presents a poignant journey.
Heterosis
A collection of dynamic NFTs which combine genetic algorithms with blockchain technology to facilitate the hybridisation of mutable digital flowers. Inspired by the tulip mania of the 17th century, this collection will receive its global gallery premiere at Kew.
Albion
This large-scale, slow-rotating piece depicts the major oak in Sherwood Forest – one of the largest oak trees in the country, estimated to have been standing for over 800 years. Captured using a laser scanner, this animation creates the eerie spectre of a tree suspended somewhere between life and death.
The Centrifugal Soul
A zoetrope which creates a stunning illusion of motion, The Centrifugal Soul depicts an animated scene of bowerbirds and birds of paradise as they perform elaborate courtship displays against an ornate backdrop of flowers in perpetual bloom.
Warning: strobe (flickering) lighting is integral to this artwork.
