John O’Rourke’s Sculptures in Group Exhibition
18@108 is a series of three consecutive sculpture exhibitions taking place at the
Royal British Society of Sculptors. Each show consists of six artists who are members
of the RBS and the respective themes of the three exhibitions are Wood, Mixed Media &
Glass and Resin. John has two works represented in the first show (Wood) which runs
from 28th February until 11th May, RBS Gallery, 108 Old Brompton Road, London SW7
3RA. Open Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays 10 am – 4.30 pm. For further details
email: info@rbs.org.uk
The following is an outline of the artist’s contribution to the show:
Luminary 2004 (pictured) was the first outcome of my Fine Art practice led PhD in
progress, through University of Wales, Aberystwyth. Installed in the gallery with its
electrically illuminated nimbus, this is the sculpture’s first showing in London. Made from
European oak, it is informed by a spiritual Path culminating in union with an impersonally
transcendent Self; the halo being a symbolic means of acknowledging this inner Reality.
As with other sculptures of this type, which I began developing in the early nineties, a
complex of micro architectural interior spaces (some being very well hidden and others
clearly visible) are integral to the work’s symbolism.
The research degree mentioned consists of producing paintings, drawings,
photographic works and sculptures. I’m doing the qualification over five years and the
first two were under the supervision of Professor Nicholas Goodrick-Clarke at University
of Wales, Lampeter. Following this the University’s Art School at Aberystwyth took over
and my current supervisor is Professor John Harvey. The theme of the PhD is
Theosophy’s Seven Human Principles as mirrored (intentionally or otherwise) in the arts.
A final exhibition of my work will be held at Aberystwyth, in January 2009, and this will be
accompanied by an illustrated text entitled Chambers of the Self: Occult Principles of
Humanity in Art. Where this written outcome is concerned I use the word ‘art’ in a
generic sense referring to a wide range of creativity including literature and film. My
long term hope is for the work to be published. Whether or not this materializes remains
to be seen.
Chambers of the Self is also the title of a more recent sculptural form - see
Efficacious Symbolism of Phenomena feature (also on this website). This work,
recently exhibited at Gloucester Place, will be represented in A1 size photographic form
in the same 18@108 exhibition. Where the interior spaces of my work are concerned,
Chambers of the Self is particularly involved, a matter which will obviously be lost in its
photographic representation, whereas Luminary is more deceptive in its relative
simplicity.
On the 18th April myself, and two others in the exhibition, will each be doing 15 minute
illustrated talks on our work in the gallery. This will begin at 6.30 pm, followed by
refreshments and general discussion. The evening is free and open to the public.