薛美龄 IMAGE ARCHIVE

WHITEWASH

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Whitewash is a series that uses the over-painting of graffiti as allegory for the conflict between individuals and the state. It explores the concept of hegemony.

The compositions appropriate paint marks made by authorities in Beijing. The colours used are often at odds with the original surfaces. A similar process is undertaken in Australia using a roller and like-coloured paint. The other primary difference is in the intent of the graffiti artists. In China public mark-making is largely undertaken to solicit business. In Australia, as in many countries, graffiti is a form of individual expression.

The title Whitewash references the process of covering up variances of colour. In my practice, I use colour as a metaphor for diversity.