Re-enter the real world at Amy Carkeek’s The End of Aesthetic Illusion exhibition at the Redland Art Gallery Capalaba from Monday 24 March.

In this exhibition, which continues until Saturday 3 May, this emerging Queensland photographic artist strips the veneer from Western society’s façade and poses the question: “How we can continue the visual spectacle to which we have all succumbed?’’.

Part of the Queensland Festival of Photography 5, the award-winning Carkeek seeks to provoke discussion on the capacity of images to shape our social and cultural perceptions.

“Images shape the individual and society to an unprecedented degree,’’ Carkeek argues.

“Mediated representations have come to constitute contemporary identities and lifestyles and are therefore powerful and influential forces in constructing our daily ‘reality’.

“In the modern, hyper-real photographic image-based world, both meaning and value have been reduced to commodities. Individuals may question authenticity, yet are still compelled to surrender to the sparkle of visual artificiality.’’

Redland City Arts, Culture and Innovation spokesman Paul Bishop says the exhibition is a thought-provoking expose of modern society.

“It is an intriguing insight into the influence of photographic images on our popular culture,’’ Cr Bishop said.  “It also shows the value of leading regional galleries such as the Redlands’ in challenging social norms and promoting debate on our cultural values.’’

Carkeek will be giving a workshop on her pinhole photography techniques for teenagers during National Youth Week 2014 on Friday 11 April.  Further information and bookings can be made on ph: 3829 8463 or email: megan.imber@redland.qld.gov.au

WHAT: The End of Aesthetic Illusion by Amy Carkeek
WHERE: Redland Art Gallery, Capalaba
WHEN: Monday 24 March – Saturday 3 May 2014