Parker’s work transforms the original forms of objects and materials using extreme force by crushing and exploding several different objects to create an altered, abstract object deterring it from its original shape. The way the original item is evolved in but still contains its original matter seems to me a reminder of the processes and the way societal beliefs and values over time have evolved and influenced our attitudes towards certain materials and objects. I feel that the way Cornelia Parker presented the beauty in destruction is very well portrayed. Throughout each piece, I think she captured the significance of political elements very well balanced in harmony with her pieces.
One piece that particularly struck my attention was an exploded garden shed blown to smithereens by the British army, which was called ‘An Exploded View’. Already in the name, this suggests something destructive yet beautiful. The way in which our view is distorted into pieces from the shattered pieces to create an intricate piece is intriguing. Moreover, the explosion appears never-ending as the shadows of the shattered pieces on the contrasted white wall amplify the level of destruction. The way in which Parker plays with the light in the centre to emphasise the level of destruction exemplifies the scale of the piece and in a way shows the aftermath of the destruction, potentially seen as the consequence of our actions.
Another example of questioning everyday objects struck me by the work titled ‘Thirty Pieces of Silver’ which comprises of over a thousand flattened silver objects. It was evident that Parker’s intention was to transform the existing meaning and their visibility. The way in which the existing silver objects were transformed all to the same dimension symoolizes the significance of the objects to the similar extremities. In a way, this removes the importance of the object itself but signifies the materiality of the silver instead. The hanging flattened objects levitating just above the floor vividly reflect their surroundings through the shiny material. It appears the mirroring effect from the silvers around depict their interdependence and the correlation between the object itself and their value and worth.
Each of Cornelia Parker’s work challenge different ideas and beliefs throughout different periods. For example, the hand-stitched backs of old button cards demonstrate the labour of women which result in intricate and delicate drawings. However, these are only the photographs which could be seen to suggest that elements of the human touch have been erased over time. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Cornelia Parker’s exhibition and it led me to question several different ideas regarding society, beliefs and values over different periods and the way in which our thinking had evolved.