Table of Contents
Art Minute
| Title: | Claire Bridge - Edge of Change |
|---|---|
| Duration: | 12:50 |
| Year: | 2013 |
| Director/DOP: | Peter M Lamont |
| Music: | Peter M Lamont |
About Claire Bridge
Early Life and Background
Born in Shepparton, Victoria, in 1970, Claire Bridge's early life was influenced by her mixed Anglo-Indian heritage. This cultural background has profoundly impacted her artistic perspective, informing her exploration of identity and hybridity in her work.
Artistic Development and Education
Bridge pursued formal art education, culminating in a Master of Contemporary Art from the Victorian College of the Arts at the University of Melbourne in 2021. Her academic journey provided a foundation for her multidisciplinary approach, allowing her to integrate various mediums and techniques into her practice.
Major Works and Exhibitions
Throughout her career, Bridge has participated in numerous exhibitions. Notably, her work "we are multitudes" was featured in the "Melbourne Now 2023" exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria, showcasing her exploration of collective identity and cultural narratives. Additionally, her collaborative project "What I Wish I'd Told You" with Deaf artist Chelle Destefano toured Victoria in 2022, engaging audiences in immersive experiences that bridge Deaf and hearing communities.
Technique and Style
Bridge's art is distinguished by its fusion of mythic and grotesque elements, creating visceral and colourful sculptural ceramics. She employs materials such as glazed white raku and stoneware, often incorporating stainless steel to construct complex forms. Her works challenge anthropocentric individualism by exploring the body as a collective and relational entity, intertwining personal biographies with cross-cultural mythologies.
Legacy and Influence
Bridge's innovative approach to art has earned her several accolades, including the Living Art Award and People's Choice for the Stan and Maureen Duke Gold Coast Art Prize in 2009. Her work is held in public and private collections across Australia, New Zealand, the USA, the UK, and Europe, reflecting her international impact. In 2024, her works were included in the Lunar Codex, sending her art to the Moon, symbolising her contributions to contemporary art and cultural discourse.
Recent Activities
Bridge continues to engage in projects that explore cultural narratives and collective identities. Her recent works delve into themes of rupture and repair, examining the body's role in personal and cultural healing. Through her multidisciplinary practice, she remains a significant figure in the Australian and international art scenes.
References
- Claire Bridge Official Website
- National Gallery of Victoria - Melbourne Now 2023
- Art World Women - Claire Bridge
- Bundanon Trust - Claire Bridge
- Where Are The Women Artists - Claire Bridge
