Robertson’s ‘Neon’ series provoke a strong response of attraction with a sense of voyeuristic fascination for the viewer. Revealing the subjects inner-most subconscious and playing with the delight of the viewers voyeuristic gaze.

The artist identifies subjects whose resonance with visceral words and phrases is ingrained so strongly by the individual that they choose to tattoo their fists. Transmuting the tapestry and belief structure of their mind onto one of the most visible parts of their human body, the hands. Thus brandishing themselves with this mindset for life.

The artist uses the subjects choice to ‘brand’ themselves with these extreme statements to remind the viewer of the human condition, that we all face moments of private inspiration or desperation.

Neon is used metaphorically with the symbolism of the rose to illuminate the dark recesses of the human mind, turning private beliefs into contemporary provocation.

Robertson has expressed that some of the subjects he has found difficult to approach. Gang members and individuals who project an interpretation of ‘stay away ’, if you come near me your life will be in danger.

His personal practise has persevered through boundaries of societal expectations and safety, connecting with the essence of the human element that connects us all.

Production for this series is defined by the contemporary illuminated sculptural form of the words. The fragile glass tubing dances and bends under extreme heat, neon or argon gas is added to culminate in neon words that leap forward into a three dimensional plane to speak to the viewer.

The light of the neon draws the moth to the flame and invites you into the experience. The production method is sumptuous and intentionally raw without a protective barrier of glass between the image and the viewer. The artist designs the photographic image and glass neon to expose, unprotected, vulnerable, fragile, revealing the subjects innermost subconscious and playing with the delight of the viewers voyeuristic gaze.

LOVEHARD