Originally shot for the 2019 Melbourne Art Trams EOI, these handshake images were reconfigured into a new work titled Body Language. It was accepted as a finalist for the Noel Counihan Commemorative Art Award addressing the theme of ‘Language and Liberty’.
The handshake embodies both visual and gestural language and speaks of the liberty to act as one pleases and the freedom to interact with another in good faith. It’s used when meeting, parting, expressing gratitude or thanks, sealing a deal or expressing affection, friendliness and trust. It conveys much information depending on the pressure involved and how long it lasts. It crosses many cultures and although many variations have evolved, the traditional clasping handshake is the most common. History traces it back to the 5th Century BC, indicating meeting in friendship and peace by demonstrating hands that were free of weapons.
Arhival pigment print on Canson Cotton Rag
Dimensions: 100cms x 125cms including white border
Exhibited:
2019 – Language & Liberty, Moreland Summer Show/Noel Counihan Commemorative Art Award, Counihan Gallery, Brunswick, Vic Australia