Annie Fraser @ Hamilton Artists Inc II

Precious Sand by Annie Fraser, 2012; Photo Credit: Karen Thiessen 2012

Annie Fraser has a way with materials and shadow. Check out the shadow cast by Precious Sand. Her sensitivity reminds me of Rebecca Vidotto's work that I wrote about in 2011 here and here. Annie and Rebecca are both graduates of McMaster University's Fine Art program. McMaster isn't renowned for its art program. Medicine, engineering, and business put McMaster on the map. Obviously the Mac fine arts program, although small, is doing something right. 

Revel, Unravel by Annie Fraser, 2012; Photo Credit: Karen Thiessen 2012

In her statement for the show, Annie states:

Home is an extension of its dweller. For some it is simply a place to seek shelter and warmth before moving on to a new place or carbon copy of the previous one. Regeneration exists in removing unfamiliar choices but the home’s skeleton remains intact.

Through mental recollection and invention, the work documents reality with a slightly skewed subjective record of time and space.

The resulting work is comprised of basic materials, wood, paper and metal. These elements, rarely used in their purest form, are introduced as tattered documents, photographs, furniture, architectural remnants and containers. Through the assemblage of materials the work functions as a synthesized archaeology of belonging and exploration. It is a reminder that nothing and everything changes over time.

Red Buttons by Annie Fraser, 2012; Photo Credit: Karen Thiessen 2012

Red Buttons by Annie Fraser, 2012; Photo Credit: Karen Thiessen 2012

Plans is the simplest of Annie's assemblages and one of my favourites. Its delicate lines cast exquisite fine shadows on the wall below. The fragility of Plans sets up a tension in me–– it is hung with a simple clip and not protected behind glass. I fear for its well-being. Work that evokes an emotional response is effective.

Plans by Annie Fraser, 2012; Photo Credit: Karen Thiessen 2012

Plans by Annie Fraser, 2012; Photo Credit: Karen Thiessen 2012

Annie Fraser is an emerging artist to watch. If you are in the Hamilton area, see the show before it comes down. Re:Structures is on at the Hamilton Artists Inc from June 29 to August 5, 2012.