EXHIBITION: PIERRE CAVALAN

By Tracey Lien

Photos do not do Pierre Cavalan’s artworks justice. In Face to Face, we see the Sydney jeweller and artist showcase his talent for using recycled materials ‘ old number plates, mirrors, metal scraps, and even the corner of a broken ruler ‘ and turning them into precious murals.

When seen in person, Cavalan’s metal sculptures glimmer and shine like exquisite pieces of jewellery that have been smashed to bits and reassembled in a tile formation. Each piece of scrap is given a facial expression ‘ either etched onto the surface or embossed into the metal ‘ and coloured light-reflecting scraps are scattered throughout the tightly knit arrangements.

Cavalan’s works are, essentially, aesthetically pleasing candy for the eyes. They are undeniably pretty, but also deeply engaging; the artist has filled his works with immaculate detail ‘ from bits of text to images ‘ beckoning viewers to move in that little bit closer to examine every mark the artist has made.

As most of the scrap materials used can also be isolated and identified as parts of everyday objects, Cavalan has shown amazing skill in bringing all the bits and pieces together to create a series of cohesive artworks that, quite literally, turn trash into treasure.

Pierre Cavalan: Face to Face

Until November 11

Gaffa Gallery, Level 1, 7 Randle St, Surry Hills

9281 1103 OR www.gaffa.com.au