Barford is known for his reworking of traditional ceramic models; reminsecent of some of the Chapman Brother’s work, they have previously involved taking traditional ceramic figurines and editing them to create new scenes and meanings that wildly belie their original poses.
His works are seen as a kind of subversive social commentary and have been likened to those of the flamboyant ceramic artist Grayson Perry. ‘The Seven Deadly Sins’ features large mirrors surrounded by small ceramic flowers; a pretty invitation to immoral vanity, if not mortal sin itself. Closer inspection reveals that each flower has been printed with found images of Barford’s representation of a well-known vice. Drawing the viewer into the piece through the mirror invites visitors to reflect upon themselves.
‘Lust’ uses photos of male and female pornography actors whilst ‘Gluttony’ reproduces locally found Indian and Chinese take-away menus. The UK riots of summer 2012 feature heavily in ‘Envy’ which uses images from CCTV footage of rioters and police against a backdrop of flames.
Barnaby Barford: The Seven Deadly Sins
David Gill Gallery, London
Until 12 April 2013
Rakan Budeiri
