David M Thomas – in collaboration with Weekend Immendorff, Suzanne Howard, Bridie Gillman, Queena Grot (AKA Pamela Rosel), Erika Scott, Rebecca Ross & Callum Galletly
Sub Urban Mystic is an integration of art, philosophy and exhibition practice.
The central works are a series of large biomorphic and geomorphic paintings. The paintings or wall hangings expand and amplify drawings made by Suzanne Howard (1962-2018). Suzanne and David M Thomas were companions in life and art for 21 years, and were both founding members of Weekend Immendorff, beginning in 2013. Suzanne’s drawings are used here as instructional diagrams on how to connect mind, body and practice. They are also spiritual portals, gateways to the physical and mystical realms.
Sub Urban Mystic also incorporates works by Meanjin artists Bridie Gillman and Queena Grot (AKA Pamela Rosel). In the lead up to the installation David visited Bridie and Pamela in their separate studios to discuss their work and the story and ideas of this exhibition and to engage in what they have called “clay and conversation”.
The inclusion of modified biographical furnishings in the installation and the elimination of officious barriers emphasise the importance of the domestic as a shared intimate space for reflection and safety.
Image: Weekend Immendorff (Suzanne HOWARD and David M THOMAS) 2022 / The Good Listener / Detail in progress / 2.7 x 2.7m / Acrylic paint, ink on canvas / © David M Thomas
