bocs

3^rd January 2008

Oriel Dafydd Hardy Presents “Hidden”, the first instalment and debut exhibition by two emerging artists Chiu Kim Lee and Charlie Phillips. Lee and Phillips both bring a deep and insightful exploration of cultural Identity. They invite people to have an opportunity to gain insight into diverse civilisations which are more than often Hidden from us.

Lee’s saturated, stylised photographs, mixed media pieces and the other work, explore concepts that challenge the perception of multicultural identity. As a British Chinese artist, Lee explores and challenges what it means to be someone who has a cultural background integrated within another. Looking into a culture which she has an insight into and yet seems hidden, disguised within another. She investigates traditional stereotypical perceptions of the Chinese culture. As an emerging artist she has the support of the Chinese Arts Centre, through the pad scheme (professional artist development scheme).

Phillips brings an unconventional idea to the “Hidden” exhibition. He has held a constant obsession and understanding of the far the East since childhood, particularly Japanese popular culture.

His most recent work caused a stir at his degree show at Aberystwyth University, where he showcased films shot and directed independently featuring rope bondage and self mutilation. Phillips works with the Japanese idea of the “Cute” and “Guro-Chan” which is the fascination of macabre anime or bizarre fetishes in Japan.