Ordered I and II

Artist Matt Laver (Edinburgh, Scotland, born 1972)

Date2001

Mediumtwo digital montage lamda prints on photographic paper mounted on MDF

ClassificationsPhotographs

Dimensionseach: 46 x 183cm

AcquisitionPurchased in 2001 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitons and with income from the Macdonald Bequest.

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDAG013987

Keywords

About MeOrdered I and II by Matt Laver is part of a larger conception, Transformism, which comprises three diptychs. In this work the artist examines the evolving preoccupations of our society, from religion, through consumerism and technology, to environmentalism and minimalism and finally back to religion.

Ordered I and II combines images of a minimally displayed fashion shop with interior views of a medieval cathedral and cloister. Cathedral aisles flank the shop floor and shopping aisles flank the cathedral crossing. The references are clear and easily identifiable to the gallery visitor - shopping has become our religion.

The work is both beautiful and exciting. The weathered stone of the ancient building merges seamlessly with the minimalist shop interior. Of course, we understand that this does not represent a real space but our familiarity with current architectural trends where old buildings are stripped and pristine interiors built within them, makes this juxtaposition seem perfectly believable. Through our experience of computer graphics we are all conversant with the idea of moving through imaginary spaces and here the emphasis on receding aisles offers the exciting possibility that we might explore the space before us.

More About Me

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Can you recognise the scenes in this piece? What statement do you think the artist is making?