Buckle Up by Shelley Dyer-Gibbins
"Buckle Up" - Linocut & spray paint 55cm x 40cm
Art Review: "Buckle Up" by Shelley Dyer-Gibbins
Shelley Dyer-Gibbins, a UK-based artist and printmaker, is known for her daring exploration of themes that intersect identity, sensuality, and the human condition through the lens of contemporary printmaking. Her work, deeply rooted in the tradition of linocut, exemplifies a unique blend of classic printmaking techniques with modern, edgy subject matter, as seen in her provocative piece, "Buckle Up."
"Buckle Up": A Bold Fusion of Eroticism and Craftsmanship
"Buckle Up," a 55cm x 40cm linocut and spray paint piece, is a striking example of Dyer-Gibbins' ability to merge technique with content that challenges and engages the viewer. The artwork, part of her Top Shelf collection, immediately captivates with its bold portrayal of leather straps and buckles intricately wrapped around the human form. The piece radiates an intense, almost visceral energy, drawing the viewer into a world where power dynamics, eroticism, and the body’s form are explored with unflinching clarity.
Dyer-Gibbins employs the linocut technique, a printmaking process that involves carving into a linoleum surface, in a way that emphasizes the textural qualities of the material. The meticulous cuts create a high-contrast image, where the stark black of the ink meets the soft gradients introduced by the spray paint, adding depth and dimension to the composition. The use of spray paint introduces a contemporary twist, adding layers of vibrancy and rebellion to the piece, which aligns with the artwork's provocative theme.
The controlled chaos of the straps—each one carefully detailed and arranged—suggests both restraint and liberation, hinting at themes of bondage while also celebrating the power of self-expression and identity. The hot pink background intensifies the contrast, making the figure and its adornments pop, while also contributing to the piece's overall sense of audacity and boldness.
Linocut: A Traditional Technique in Contemporary Context
Linocut, traditionally a medium for bold and graphic imagery, finds new life in Dyer-Gibbins' hands. Her ability to combine this age-old technique with spray paint exemplifies her commitment to pushing the boundaries of printmaking. This approach is not only technically impressive but also conceptually rich, as it allows her to juxtapose the rigidity of traditional craftsmanship with the fluidity and freedom of modern artistic expression.
In "Shoot for the Stars," another of Dyer-Gibbins' linocut works combined with mixed media, the artist explores themes of aspiration and ambition, presenting a more introspective and contemplative mood compared to the raw energy of "Buckle Up." The contrast between these works highlights Dyer-Gibbins' versatility and her ability to traverse different emotional and thematic terrains while maintaining a consistent mastery over her chosen medium.
Shelley Dyer-Gibbins’ "Buckle Up" is a testament to her skill as a printmaker and her boldness as an artist unafraid to delve into the more provocative aspects of human experience. Through her innovative use of linocut and mixed media, she continues to push the boundaries of contemporary printmaking, creating works that are as thought-provoking as they are visually striking. "Buckle Up" stands as a powerful piece within her oeuvre, reflecting a fearless exploration of identity, power, and the erotic, solidifying her position as a significant voice in the world of modern printmaking.
For more on her work, you can explore her portfolio on her website.
