Station 12

Deadly Confessions (detail), light box, paper, backlit transparency Kodak - 190 GSM, art crate, space blanket and mesh, 120cm x 143 x 58 cm. Photograph by Joe Tareha.

I’m interested in addressing real world issues in challenging ways through use of symbolism, comedy, spirituality, juxtaposition and escape mechanisms. I wanted to create Deadly Confessions in a playful manner where we explore various issues surrounding death with multiple readings.

Its placement, colour choice and use of a light box are designed to capture the attention of others and bring them inside the church. This makeshift confession booth created by recycling an old art crate turned on its side acts as a refuge. The backlit transparency shows an obscure figure holding a pendulum by Dali, hinting death is near and it’s only a matter of time. The curtains partially open, metaphorically suggesting the booth is ready to hear the next confession.

The obscured cloaked figure wearing a reflective space blanket inside the confessionary pays homage to refugees. This faceless, hooded character is also intended to represent those marginalised in society including the homeless. This childish, mobile confession unit has taken on a reversal of roles, by asking the disadvantaged for their opinion. The idea is that by being aware of our own mortality we become more humane in wanting to help others in desperate need. Here the priest has been replaced by an asylum seeker suggesting that we are all one and acts as a sanctuary for asylum seekers facing deportation.