SUBURBAN PRIMITIVE – an upcoming pop-up art show at the Juddy Roller Gallery in Fitzroy will be the largest solo show to date for independent Melbourne artist Steve Leadbeater.
Steve kindly took the time to fill us in ahead of his exhibition that showcases ancient primal wisdom brutally expressed in the offhand tone of contemporary Australia.
Howdy Steve, can you tell us a little about your exhibition?
SUBURBAN PRIMITIVE is a pop-up show over four days at the famous Juddy Roller gallery. It’s the most ambitious show I’ve ever attempted.
How are you going with your prep?
Well, there’s a lot more to putting a show together than people might think. I have a plan but at times it can get overwhelming.
How did the chance to put on a show come about?
Shaun from Juddy Roller visited the Flux clothing store and got talking to the owner Denis (my brother) – he’s great at making things happen.
What has been involved in making it happen?
Over 18 months spent creating the work. Finding the right place and the right time to show it. Lots of favours and lots of paint (for the work and the gallery walls).
How would you describe the work that you’re putting together?
Over 100 paintings and drawings of all sizes. I often work on objects I find in the suburbs. I subvert their original meaning with primal mark-making and references to everyday life. The work has been described as a brutal collision of the divine primitive and the suburban banal.
Is there a common theme for the works that you’ll have?
For sure. Even though the works have been completed at different times, I always want it to be a reminder of the immense power, vulnerability and mystery of being human.
Have you had any challenges?
Getting the right crew together has been difficult. Safely transporting a lot of large work is a logistical challenge too. Putting yourself out there is always a big emotional and financial risk.
What excites you most about the show?
A chance to polarise a large audience with the physical work. It has a reputation for deeply inspiring people, but many are confronted with fear.
Is there anyone you’d like to give a shout out to?
Denis for everything. Key players Kim, Tahli, Maxton, Toby, Nella and Shaun. Proud partners: Ironlak, Juddy Roller, Melbourne Fine Art Printers, Flux, Union Heights, Melbourne Food Files, and Grolsch.
Are there any comments you’d like to add?
SUBURBAN PRIMITIVE runs from 28 November – 1 December at Juddy Roller Gallery. 226A Johnston St, Fitzroy.
Don’t miss the OPENING NIGHT Friday 29 November, 6 – 11 pm with complimentary refreshments courtesy of Melbourne Food Files and Grolsch Pilsner.
RSVP to the event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/426234931328272/?ti=icl
You can find Steve online here:
Instagram: @leadbeater
Website: steveleadbeater.com