Tim Ellis (b. 1981)

Tim Ellis centers his work around the idea “that a Being has a primeval desire to want to belong to something greater than oneself”. He talks about the “wanting to belong” manifesting itself in both the production and consumption of art and craft objects. “Whether in isolation or as a collection art and craft objects are dependent on a creator, mediator and audience, as a consequence they inherit their aspirations, values and intentions.”

Ellis examines the process whereby art and craft objects from one culture come into close contact with another. This coming together leads to an exchange in value and shift in meaning. Ellis conducts in-depth research into cultural products; how they are made, used and displayed. Sometimes using found objects and other times abstracting from pre-existing designs, these are transformed to form totemic sculptures and paintings. The material decisions and finishing given to the objects and paintings suggest a utility, beyond that of their original function.

Whether displayed singularly or grouped in an installation the strategies employed in staging the works allow them to appear as ready-mades. The harmonious interaction between surface, object and display only serve to heighten the illusion. Ellis is seamlessly able to weave together historical fact and invention, allowing an engagement with notions of symbolism, artifact and artifice.

Profile

Born: 1981 in Chester, England, United Kingdom

RA Schools student from 2006 to 2009

Gender: Male

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