This series of original A4 sized photo media collages by Melbourne artist Peter Milne revisits the iconography of pirate culture with the tired eyes of one who has lived through six decades of triumphant, late Capitalism and finds less to celebrate.
In 1950 Disney studios released a live-action adaptation of the swashbuckling classic 'Treasure Island'. This was just a few years after WWII, when democratic capitalism had beaten back tyranny and the spirit of freedom was ascendant. The Disney film created a renewed enthusiasm for pirate-related popular culture, with romantic, adventurous anti-heroes whose violence and rakish, deceitful guile were redeemed by their resolute sense of honour and justice. . The artist now sees this kind of mythology as more a testament to toxic masculinity and naked greed than any reflections of chivalrous ideals.
The resultant works are surreal and, as always with Milne’s work, extremely funny and unnerving.
Exhibition dates: Thursday March 20 - Sunday March 30, 2025
Gallery hours Thurs- Fri 3-7 pm, Saturdays 1-7 pm, Sundays 1-5 pm.
Also by appointment : ph: 0432357537