Mary-Louise Browne: Out of Character

1 July - 13 August 2000 in the Entire Gallery

This project is the first solo exhibition in a public institution for Mary-Louise Browne since 1990, and continues the commitment of City Gallery Wellington to projects by New Zealand artists.

Thematically, the project is a continuation of Browne’s female and feminist themes, and of her interest in language and text in a visual context. The title Out of Character refers to Browne’s use of different materials, but is also a fascinating play on the multiplicity of meanings of the word “character” and the phrase “out of character”. These can be interpreted as a variety of diverse allusions, to traits such as eccentricity, dementia, moral fibre, temperament and charm.

The works feature timeless phrases uttered by both men and women; phrases which reverberate with both strength and vulnerability, and which are laced with fear, danger, intrigue and irony.

This effect may be increased by the addition of a spoken-word, utilising repetitive samples of conversation (many from well-known films and television programmes) to enhance the disembodied, haunting atmosphere. The dramatic elements of the exhibition and theatrical nature of the installation evoke further connotations of the title Out of Character— notions of role-playing, facade and exaggerated emotion.

The exhibition comprises 8-10 large-scale works on paper. These will be augmented by a large black carpet in the centre of the gallery floor, which will be able to be walked on. The overall aim is to achieve a reverential atmosphere akin to the Rothko Chapel in Houston, Texas—a modern meditative environment.