Sydney-based painter and multimedia creator Guy Whitworth is set to unveil his latest exhibition, “Meliorism (or the joyous exploration of our souls)”, at the M2 Gallery in Surry Hills.
The show opens on August 7 and runs through August 13. This exhibition marks 25 years since Whitworth’s first Sydney exhibition in 1999 and aims to provoke a deep emotional response from its audience.
Whitworth, who is gay and known for his evocative works, aims to stir the emotions of his viewers with this latest collection.
“The paintings within this show have been deliberately curated to evoke and stimulate,” Whitworth said.
“I set out to create canvases filled not just with an aesthetic of beauty but with the intention to encourage an emotional reaction.”
The artist said was “looking forward to seeing people cry” at the show.
“I really don’t mind it if people cry at one of my shows!” he said.
The concept of meliorism, the belief that the world can be made better by human effort, is a central theme in this exhibition. Whitworth believes humans can interfere within natural processes, with tools such as education and art, in order to actively improve the world as time progresses.
Whitworth’s work reflects this belief, combining neo-classic and pop art influences with references to classical history and mythology.
In addition to his visual art, Whitworth is a writer and activist. He has published two books of humorous social commentary and has a third book on the way. Furthermore, he co-founded the global initiative No Meat May, underscoring his commitment to activism and social change.
This exhibition also delves into Whitworth’s personal experiences during the 1980s HIV and AIDS epidemic. Reflecting on this period, he says, “My recent works reference my young adulthood in the time of the AIDS epidemic, how that affected me, yet encouraged resilience and the ability to fight for what I believe in.
“There aren’t many queer artists left of my age group, since so many didn’t make it. I feel duty-bound to put on a show worthy of the stories of those who have passed.”
More details about his work and projects can also be found on his website, guyjameswhitworth.com.
The opening night of Meliorism is on August 8 at 6pm, held at M2 Gallery, 450 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills. The exhibition runs daily from 11am to 6pm, August 7 to 13.
Ben Grubb is the founder and editor of Gay Sydney News, an independent publication covering LGBTQIA+ news. A journalist with more than 15 years' experience, he has reported and edited for The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, WAToday, Brisbane Times, The Australian Financial Review, News.com.au, ZDNet, TelecomTimes and iTnews, primarily on the topic of technology. He previously hosted The Informer, a queer current affairs program on Melbourne’s JOY 94.9 radio station, and contributes to LGBTQIA+ media including Stun Magazine. Ben has also appeared as a technology commentator on Channel Ten's The Project, ABC RN’s Download This Show and commercial radio stations 2UE, 2GB and 6PR. Contact Ben: ben.grubb@gaysydneynews.com.au
