Cultural Decomposition, Denis Brown, 1992
Mixed media book art, 120 x 160 cm. Collection: The British Library

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From the Ancient Codex Series- a complex group of artworks, conveying a plurality of meanings. The works take the form of massive manuscript books, mounted in shallow wall-hung cases. They contain writings rendered in my own calligraphy, though Celtic in style. The manuscripts have been subjected to various processes of deterioration: tearing, burning, disease, decay, and obliteration by over-painting.

On one level, the books can be interpreted as monumental symbols of artistic culture in Ireland. On another level, the manuscripts, whose Latin texts are all biblical, can be seen as symbolizing religion in Ireland.

Throughout the series, electric cables worm through pages. The three-ply cable symbolizes the Holy Trinity, in the tradition of triadic decorative motifs in Celtic Art, but here the virulent disposition conveys a modern danger

©2017 Denis Brown  |  www.quillskill.com