Geordie Lishman: Hidden Worlds 

9 July - 4 September, 2011
Opening Reception: Friday 8 July 5pm 

In this mystical exhibition the artist leads us on a mysterious journey where the goal is to help us see beyond our present state of being. Our connection to the environment and our presence in the universe are explored as major themes. Lishman's sculpture has focused on icons representing the grand program of existence, but it is through these symbols that he seeks to investigate the unknown factors of the universe. His fascination revolves around an element known as "ether", which by the artist's definition could be the fabric of space and time as we know it. Lishman indicates it is defined and recognized by many cultures; in physics it is known as "a hypothetical substance supposed to occupy all space" while it was believed by ancients to fill the upper regions of the cosmos. The content and impact of the substance is explored, sometimes through a view of lost or forbidden sciences and spiritual myths and rituals of indigenous cultures.

In this exhibition, Lishman's first major solo showing in a public gallery, the artist crafts fantastical creatures; a mechanical horse with the head of a sphinx, an owl and eagle with moving wings, a "universe machine" that illustrates levels of influence in planting strategies found in the Farmer's Almanac. He provides glimpses of the mechanics of these machines, hidden worlds that bring us closer to the fabric of all being by showing us both its subtlety and intricacy. Born in Port Perry and a graduate of the Vancouver Film School, Lishman was influenced by his artist parents Paula, a fashion designer, and sculptor Bill Lishman. He teaches at the Foundations in Art and Design programme at Durham College. Curated by Linda Jansma.