'REALITY DE-CODER'

Following from his internationally recognised series of paintings on rockers U2, Egan showcases new 20 works, and opens for the viewer a state of childlike wonder and joyous imagination with two little words: what if?

This body of work is a mixture of canvas paintings and prints that filter Egan's signature continual line-work through graphic paint marks, in a fusion of graffiti and blotting, futuristic and abstract art. His figures and icons reveal the complex, often contradictory fast paced rhythm of urban modern life. Highly energised and frenetic, they almost threaten to explode out of the canvas.

"The marks of paint are open to interpretation and full of possibilities," says David. "People will notice things they wouldn't normally notice in the works and I want to encourage them to do the same within themselves."

Underneath Egan's rhetorical 'what if' in Reality De-coder is a prompt for his audience: consider the construction of 'reality' in their lives, through particular channels such as media and television culture, and break down the restrictions those ideals impose on us as a society. "I want people to see that anything is possible and anything can happen," says David Egan.

The Irish born artist is influenced by the multi-dimensions of contemporary popular culture, particularly fashion, architecture and design. These factors are considered by Egan in his works, usually acting as a starting point. He identifies four key areas in his process - concept, patterning, abstract narrative and abstract scenes.

Egan Gallery is a custom-built exhibition and studio - a masterpiece of natural open light, aesthetics and functionality. Designed by an architect and the artist, it opened in November 2005 and is his fourth gallery - a confirmation of David's commitment to his art and his 18 year career as an artist.

The Irish Times has proclaimed that "Egan is very successful in Australia, and has a rapidly growing international reputation..."

David Egan's work has been quickly snapped by ever-growing group of international collectors, such as Elton John, film director Jim Sheridan and U2. With a philanthropic outlook, Egan has donated works and been commissioned by organisations such as Amnesty International, The Guide Dogs Association, Greenpeace and, most recently, The Schizophrenia Research Institute.

Reality De-coder, until 22 December 2007
Egan Gallery, 3a Glenmore Road Paddington, Sydney
Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm, 02 9361 0066 or by appointment