Eugene Gibson (12/JN) is one of five current Year 12 IB Visual Arts students. His Year 12 Body of Work is closely linked with the Theory of Knowledge course that is a major component of the IB Programme. Being a reflective student,  Eugene decided to investigate what it means to be human – how do we as human beings see the world around us and the concept that every object has its meaning and significance on both spiritual and philosophical levels. For example, a small rock can be seen as an object that has no value, yet in some cultures people hold the rock to represent the “essence” of the Universe.

Eugene’s sculptures explore this idea through the use of rocks, river pebbles, weightless cane and tissue to create structures that remind us of different elements of nature such as chrysalis shells and ancient fossils.  The sculptures he has created are golden in colour and semi-translucent, and the skeletal-like forms he has made accompanied by small drawings of the famous Venus of Willendorf symbolise the interaction of the animal and human worlds. In particular, a Venus-shaped rock represents motherhood.

While some of his works look like papyrus-thin autumn leaves, others are rock structures that are suspended from the wall – seemingly defying the rules of gravity. The effect of these two styles working side by side make the audience consider the paradoxical nature of many things.

The key part of Eugene’s series is the “Golden Tree” that appears to grow through a box hence showing the breaking down of boundaries and expectations. The tree symbolises nature, and its preciousness is reflected in the golden flesh that can be seen through the gaps in the bark. The tree, in contrast to the rocks show the dichotomies of life v death, movement v stillness and growth v eternity.

Overall, a very successful work which captures the essence of the IB Visual Arts course.

Congratulations Eugene!

Ms Marina Hinves
IB Visual Arts Teacher