Exhibition lifts the paper-thin veil concealing our internal contradictions

Paul Bibby

Cognitive dissonance – the state of having inconsistent thoughts or beliefs – will be explored in a new exhibition opening next weekend at Lismore Regional Gallery.

Entitled Abyss, the exhibition is the latest contribution by Reynaldo Alcocer. It explores the moral and behavioural contradictions within all of us and our society as a whole.

‘What is a trait that you, your friends, families and I might share with violent racists, conservatives, liberals, American Republicans and Democrats, the religious, atheists, nationalists, terrorists..?’ Mr Alcocer asks rhetorically in describing the works.

‘My artwork uses both visual inconsistency and consistency in favour of exploring the dark side of moral contradictions found in human groups and individuals.’

‘The action in contrast to the beliefs and concepts is a significant worry in today’s political climate (or worldview).’

Alcocer uses primarily tissue and paper towel as a substrate to convey the fragility of these delicate concepts.

The materials he uses also explore the frustrations encountered when faced with looking at our own moral values comparing the paper-thin veil with traits in people we revere and revile.