Unlike anything the Glasshouse has ever seen, Between Nature and Sin, the exhibition by David Griggs encapsulates his evolution as an artist over the last 10 years.
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Born and raised in Sydney, Griggs has spent most of the last decade living in Manila, Philippines and said his experiences there has been a huge contributing factor in his work.
“This exhibition shows snapshots of my time in Manila and the different collections of work I did over there,” Mr Griggs said.
“it is a touring exhibition so in each new place we visit the exhibition changes which means I keep getting to reevaluate the exhibition which has been interesting.
“The exhibition itself is made up of video work I have produced, paintings and photos from my time in Manila.”
The work explores the darker undercurrents of human existence.
His work, predominantly portraiture, focuses on the human condition; drawing on political imagery, underground media, local histories and personal experience.
Famous for his large scale, bold approach, Griggs exposes the raw underbelly of society which includes a collaboration with prison inmates.
“I enjoy working on the large scale art pieces because there is an element of unknown which is really exciting,” he said.
“The reoccurring theme in my work is a central focal point covered by layers of colour and experimentation.
“The different sections in the collection show different works from over the years.
“From working in a building that historically held the hippy art district back in the day that is now part of the red light district to working with inmates in prison.”
Curator of the travelling exhibition Megan Monte said the collection is Griggs most ambitious project to date.
“Manila has challenged, broken and rebuilt Griggs in countless ways, as have his collaborations,” Ms Monte said.
“The series of work presented in Between Nature and sin is Griggs’ most ambitious and challenging project to date.
“The examination of the issues that affect his adopted home of the Philippines continues in the major feature film Cowboy Country presented for the first time.
“Set in a fishing village of one of the Philippines’ remote islands the film follows the story of a kidnapped American Filipino teenage held captive for ransom and is produced collaboratively with the community.”
The exhibition is now open and runs until April 22.
