bio

introduction My interest in the architecture of cities is in the relationship between our skyscrapers and our own biology. Not only because of the structural similarities, the same joiners, patterns and shapes, or merely because these constructions seem to take on personality through their façade or the space they fill in the landscape, but also in the way in which we change our own behaviour in their presence. These works are made in response to the cities that I have lived in and in particular to Melbourne and Hong Kong. In a place where most people know only highrise life, Hong Kong appears an organic city, forever growing and changing. Bamboo scaffolding provides the framework for bridges linking skyscrapers, rotting in the humidity, growing and decomposing at the same time. The spaces within these buildings constantly alters, parts are added and bits are torn down by their occupants in an attempt to personalise their space and extend ownership over these swaying monsters of concrete. Melbourne, with its organic sprawl now focusing itself back to its centre is in the early stages of this journey. The newer buildings are shiny and clean, the older ones already connecting to each other with walkways, signs added, posters and billboards cover once proud new walls. Like neural networks, some links are renewed and strengthened whilst others fall into disuse and decay. Some are built over or around. Set pathways give way to shortcuts and trespasses on stolen space. These paintings and drawings are a response to my ongoing fascination with the unseen bonds that link ourselves to the highrise.