Marc-Antoine K. Phaneuf at ARPRIM, Montreal

marc-antoine-k-phaneuf-at-arprim-installation-view

16 January-7 February 2015

Catalogue des apocalypses ordinaires: Marc-Antoine K. Phaneuf

In Catalogue des apocalypses ordinaires, Marc-Antoine K. Phaneuf explores the potential of xerography (photocopying) as an art form. Starting from found documents–generally low quality advertising material, like want ads, junk faxes and other old newspaper clippings–the artist creates site-specific photocopy collages that spread through the exhibition space, flooding both walls and floor.

By blowing-up certain details, thus highlighting graphical features specific to this printing method, the artist examines the qualities (and flaws) of these “disposable” images, whose very nature precludes any kind of permanence. Catalogue des apocalypses ordinaires forces an encounter between a heterogeneous collection of textured objects to piece together delirious tales from the scattered remains of a time when mankind fearfully awaited disasters like Y2K, and the 2012 apocalypse.

Questioning the obsolescence of xerography and the impending disappearance of its particular aesthetic qualities now that digital printing offers more and more alluring products (whatever their use), Phaneuf offers a sprawling installation that takes a critical look at our paradox-ridden relationship with consumption-oriented imagery.

Since 2005, Marc-Antoine K. Phaneuf has been developing a multidisciplinary art practice focused on the objects and myths of popular culture in Quebec and the Western world. His work has been in solo and group exhibitions across Quebec. In addition, he continues his work as an independent curator and is the author of three books of poetry published by Le Quartanier, one of which, Téléthons de la Grande Surface, was nominated for the Prix Émile-Nelligan in 2009.

(text adapted from the gallery’s press material)


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Image:
Catalogue des apocalypses ordinaires
by Marc-Antoine K. Phaneuf
installation view
xerography
2015
Image courtesy of ARPRIM, Montreal. Photo by Caroline Cloutier.