The images that Esther Ellard creates are playful and intuitive, abstract diagrams of imagined, otherworldly views.
They seem to be part drawing, part map, or like a circuit diagram, blueprint, underground system or data visualization. They’re not logical (but neither are they random) however there are no predetermined rules, except to build the compositions using the basic properties of this
simplest of materials – sticky tape.
Esther uses tape as a medium precisely because of its simplicity. It has a set width, colour and pattern and she uses this as a building block to craft something new – a lot of ordinary things brought together to make something extraordinary.
Although there is no preconceived plan of where the pieces will end up, completing one is similar to completing a puzzle. Like a machine or a complex pattern everything has a place but it only becomes apparent in the process of putting it together.
The modesty or humility of the material used, and its recognisable
function, draws the viewer in, whilst at the same time its role is elevated to one beyond that basic function.
These are abstract works, apparently uncomplicated but full of detail, subtlety and coincidence, and may be seen differently by each viewer. They don’t dictate how they might be looked at and allow the viewer to take from them what they will. They are not ‘of’ anything, although
objects and spaces seem to be hinted at, and patterns emerge.
The title is a quote from a project by designer Mike Mills called ‘Humans’ which compiles a collection of artworks and a short story about a time after his father passed away where he noticed tiny moments in everyday life, such as the pattern of cracks in a plate or his breath on a window.
Esther graduated in 2013 from BA Graphic Design at Central Saint
Martins. Since then she has been working freelance on various projects
including large-scale murals, print work and design for products.
Most recently she was artist in residence at the Affordable Art Fair Hampstead where she created a hanging installation, and ran a tape themed workshop.
For more information contact Franco La Russa at info@cuebgallery.com
