Caelum
Hannah Absalom
Oil Paint on Stretched Canvas
2018
…dominated by icy blues and darkness; the composition of the body is huddled, the tension in the muscles and tendons suggests a desperation to maintain warmth in a barren, wintery environment.
Absalom’s work primarily focuses on concepts surrounding religion and mysticism through a contemporary interpretation of ancient iconography, ritual and folklore. Aside from narrative tales, Absalom also explores collective thought, in which certain symbols, colours, creatures and bodily gestures invoke shared responses across time and culture. In addition to exploring the effect of religion upon traditional art forms, this investigation expands into a reflection of Judeo-Christianity on the aesthetics of the grotesque and horror, specifically in 20th century cinema. Absalom aims to present a classical yet surreal interpretation of dystopias and apocalypses within the framework of contemporary concerns; political, societal and environmental. The uncanny is an underlying aspect of Absalom’s practice, primarily her video work. The imagery used can often be unsettling, disturbing and hypnotic in its blending of dream and dogma.
Absalom is a 2020 graduate of The Glasgow School of Art with a BaHons in Fine Art - Painting & Printmaking. Though originally from Northumberland, she is currently based in Glasgow, working as a practicing artist. Absalom has also studied at The Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design in Jerusalem, Israel, and over the last few years has taken part in several film festivals and exhibited internationally.
Instagram: @hkaart