Dan Wollmering

With evidence of Chinese, Indian and European
overlays in architectural style throughout its history, Malaysia offers a multi dimensional experience of national identity – of a hegemonic and colonialist past and also of a contemporary culture in the midst of embracing state of the art design trends. From the shimmering PetronasTowers of Kuala Lumpur to the crumbling, aged buildings of ‘Old China Town’ and the Mosque-like structures found scattered throughout the country-side, Wollmering’s work references both ancient and contemporary perspectives. Continuing his practice of working with lost wax casting, the resulting aluminium and silicon bronze sculptures capture within their form a texturally weathered and complex character akin to both the natural and man made materials and surfaces present within Malay architecture. Many of these new works incorporate a circular tesserae outcropping suggestive of the gentle curve of a mosque dome while the use of protruding horizontal strata elements suggest the shady relief provided by the verandas of traditional stilt houses. The pale metallic quality of aluminium moreover suggests the dazzling surfaces of the country’s futuristic skyscrapers.

The exhibition will also include a series of wall reliefs in painted metal and wood that intend to celebrate the intermingling of dialogues between Australian and Malaysian societies. Overall Wollmering’s works convincingly convey the visual quality of daily life on the streets of Malaysia and with material sensitivity explores the common ground that can be found within the fabric of buildings and structures alike.