Byron McBride, Work From Home, 2021. Acrylic on panel. Collection of the artist.
The past few years have unquestionably been very difficult. Devastating climatic conditions; economic recession; social and political turmoil; and a devastating global pandemic have all taken their toll leaving many wondering what the future will hold. While some assert that ‘life’ will return to ‘normal’ or pre-pandemic times, others are not so sure. Will life return to what it was or does this time presage the development of different systems of government, economic structures, ways of social interaction and ways of actual living?
For thousands of years many artists have either reflected on current conditions in their work or created ‘alternate worlds’ which comment on the present or, through their own fantastical narratives, hint at how the future will unfold. The TREX exhibition Come What May features the work of three artists who, through a focus on ‘fantasy’ and imagination in their creative endeavors, reflect on the world as they find it or create new worlds which envision a different course for the human race. Will things get worse? Will they get better? Will life as we know it change and, if so, how?
Curated by Shane Golby, Art Gallery of Alberta (TREX Region 2)
