BALACLAVA 

by Nick Barlow

The aim for this ongoing body of work has been to try and understand and portray the uncanniness of the balaclava. As an object that traditionally functions to protect and comfort from the harsh elements of weather, the balaclava often becomes subverted in meaning and function in contemporary society. This subversion is often witnessed in multiple instances where anonymity is key; protests, civil unrest and in the more commonly associated bank robber. The result of such instances turns the balaclava from something soft, protective and comforting in to something of its opposite that bears threat and danger. 

Artist Bio

Nick barlow is an emerging artist based in Mulubinba (Newcastle) Australia. Working mainly as a painter, Barlow aims to examine the the ways in which we as humans navigate the everyday, from moments of intimacy to the mundane and strange moments that go unquestioned. 

Onwards Gallery
6 Torpey Place Hamilton

Opens 6-9pm. 16 June 2023
Continues Sat-Thurs 11am-4pm.