A study in masculinity

An exhibition inspired by issues and influences surrounding masculinity is next to feature at Chrissie Cotter Gallery.

In his show Borne From My Youth, Martin Claydon has mined his “own experiences of modern day masculinity”.

“The exhibition looks at some of the expectation, influence and learnt behaviour of young boys and its resulting impact,” he said.

“It aims to shed light on the way we raise our young boys and how this shapes them as grown men. The confusion around what it means to be masculine and the pressure to conform to a particular behaviour is in need of addressing. This is one long standing contemporary issue,” he said.

“I think an artist must always examine what the viewer needs and consider what is relevant. I want them to question their belief systems and their views of power structures,” Martin said.

A recent frightening experience of road rage has informed his exhibition. Martin was subjected to, “The ugly elements of masculinity increasingly developing in Australia and overseas”.

However, “I cannot thank that man enough for empowering my work and showing me that society has a problem,” he said.

Borne From My Youth is at Chrissie Cotter Gallery, Pidcock Street Camperdown, from Wednesday 12 April – Sunday 23 April.

Opening Event: Wednesday 12 April, 6-8pm. 

www.martinclaydon.com
For an interview with the artist, or a print quality image of his work, call 0411 586 347.