Sleight of hand is a term belonging to magic.  It describes a set of tricks performed with such dexterity that the manner of execution cannot be observed.  

The same kind of phenomenon exists in art.  It is achieved through the application of visual theory and technical skill and ultimately relies on a high level of artistic ability and knowledge.  The result is a seemingly effortless illusionary effect that is deceptive, impressive and undeniably delightful. 

This exhibition is an attempt to contain and examine that sensation as demonstrated by the work of eight contemporary New Zealand artists. 

The concept of illusion employed in the exhibition is that described by the art historian, E.H. Gombrich (1909 – 2001) in his 1960 publication Art and Illusion: A Study in the Psychology of Pictorial Representation.   In this text, Gombrich broadly defines illusion as a pictorial representation of reality.  Achieving an accurate or lifelike illusion has been a strong motivation in the technical history of Western art and for a time, ‘illusionism’ was the most important criteria upon which art was judged.  In the twentieth century, however, new artistic inquiries were pursued and illusionism fell out of fashion. 

Sleight of Hand returns to the traditional criteria of connoisseurship associated with illusionism.  It includes art works that exhibit a high degree of novelty and difficulty and demonstrate a range of illusory effects.   By surveying recent New Zealand art according to these principles, Sleight of Hand promotes a strand of contemporary art practice that is engaged with classical art traditions.

Anna-Marie White

Curator

The Port Nelson Suter Biennale Sleight of Hand is the sixth contemporary art project in a biennial series which began in 1999. The project aims to present an aspect of contemporary art practice in New Zealand and is presented as an exhibition, catalogue and usually results in the acquisition of art works for The Suter’s collection. 

The generous support of Port Nelson Ltd and Creative New Zealand for the Biennale makes it possible for The Suter to develop a project of national significance, to contribute perspectives on directions in New Zealand art and to allow visitors to The Suter to encounter at high quality art works.  Kia ora.

Julie Catchpole

Director