Lewer reflects on religion

Critically acclaimed multi-disciplinary artist Richard Lewer will be premiering some of his newest works at the Geelong Gallery next month.

I Only Talk to God When I Want Something will reflect on his longstanding and deeply personal exploration of Christianity.

The exhibition’s title is Lewer’s own personal confession and an acknowledgment that in the day-to-day busyness of contemporary life Lewer, like many others, only draws on his belief system at times of personal need.

His new pieces are inspired by the Last Judgement – a day of reckoning in the Christian religion – and other key religious figures and stories from Melbourne and Geelong.

These religious narratives and historical imagery act as touchpoints in his contemporary life.

‘It’s exciting to see these series come together for the first time and for people to spend time with them,” Lewer said.

“At a time of great social upheaval, my focus on religion is a reflection on how its narratives and moral framework have provided comfort and inspiration for millennia.

“This exhibition is a reminder to moderate, to pause, and to empathise.”

I Only Talk to God When I Want Something will be presented alongside some of his other key series including Seven Deadly Sins, Stations of the Cross and Confessions.

His candid and authentic reflections – often presented with humour and honesty will deeply resonate with audiences who find their own lives and experiences mirrored in his works.

Geelong Gallery director and chief executive officer Humphrey Clegg said Lewer was one of Australia’s most loved and significant contemporary artists.

“His ability to examine, reflect upon, and represent our shared experience of the contemporary world around us through his artwork makes him an artist that everybody should know.

“We are delighted to share Lewer’s new work with audiences here in Geelong first.’

The exhibition will run at Geelong Gallery until March 1. For more information, head to geelonggallery.org.au