Beacon by James Rhodes

Size (cm): 61 x 81.5
Oil and Silver Gelatin on Board
Inspired by the physical, industrial and symbolic character of the Port of Newcastle and its harbour, James Rhodes primarily concerns his conceptual development with the changing uses of the harbour as juxtaposed with the harbour’s natural beauty and traditional usage. Through this process, he speculates on the harbour’s possible future and examines its impact.

Rhodes plays with the visual qualities of the harbour while exploring how they are conceptually experienced by the audience. Through the use of an industrial orange juxtaposed against a stark white backdrop and the surface of the harbour, Rhodes is able to explore the harbour’s symbolism and its history.