LONDON, ENGLAND, UNITED KINGDOM
Using montage and collage, Ben West openly manipulates the photographic space, where he constructs and deconstructs materials to build new patterns of meaning. His collages are ultimately concerned with how we continue to interact with, and impact, our natural surroundings with technological, economic, and political developments. Whilst the images he creates possess a playfulness, this belies his intention to communicate a serious environmental and political statement.
Ben West’s Modified Nature is the cover work in Kolaj Issue 8. You can see more of his work on his Kolaj Magazine Artist Directory Page and on his website.
Ariane Fairlie wrote about Ben West’s collage work in her Issue Eight portfolio:
[West’s] work is all hand-made, and his physical interaction with the material is integral to his practice. Although his artwork is aesthetically light, his conscience obviously bears a heavy load. West is not afraid to ask questions of our conduct, state his position, and ask you to consider your own.
To see all of Ben West’s Artist Portfolio, purchase Issue Eight or SUBSCRIBE to never miss an issue.
Image:
What Clouds Mean
by Ben West
10″x8″
mixed media on canvas board
2004
Image courtesy of the artist