The Apostles, is a photo exhibit by St. John's artist John Rao, exploring imagery and concepts familiar to western Christian culture. The Apostles opens at the Masonic Temple on Sunday, August 15. This is the first solo art show in a number of years for Rao, who is a visual artist and performer.
His most recent work includes roles in The Rocky Horror Picture Show (2008), Republic of Doyle (2009), and photography and design for a long list of local and national clients. Rao describes the show as new work inspired by "his own struggles with religion" through the medium of photography as The Apostles.
"I'm conflicted, like many, with the role religion plays in our everyday lives" said Rao. “I have come to some personal conclusions which are evident in the work. But even deeper, for me, the concept of the follower has taken on a new role in the social network generation. This work, is a personal reflection on the notion of being a follower, an Apostle, of others, and sometimes without really knowing why.”
John’s influences are evident in a few pieces in particular, “St. Francis in Meditation” a response to the painting of the same name by Francisco de Zurbarán and “The Impossibility of New Ideas, in the Mind of One Without”, homage to British artist Damien Hirst.
There are three main acts to The Apostles: The Creators, The Myths, and The Followers. Each is born out of the other and influences its progeny," said Rao.
John lauds the skillful hands of friend Terri Andrews for Make-up for the Creators portion of the piece and fabulous costumes by Fionnula McMahon and local Designers Barry Buckle and Sara Hodder,“This work would be nothing without them”.
Hanging until August 22nd, opening night of The Apostles is not to be missed as it includes a show created around the exhibit with elements of music and dance. Pianist Thomas Yee and violinist Lynn Kuo will join local dancers Jill Dreaddy and Robyn Breen for an extraordinary evening of thought-provoking art that will, undoubtedly have the audience exploring the shows central question, "Why do you follow?"
Featuring as models: Melanie O'Brien, Heather Costello, Stacey Barnes, Lynn Kuo, Amanda Molloy, Chelsea O'Neill, Chelsea Hoskins, Megan Hancock, Coco Leung, Daniella Munden, Signy Gissurardottir, Krupa Patel, Victoria Howard and more!
The Apostles includes 12 pieces featuring local models which will all be for sale until the exhibit closes.
Media contact:
Kathryn Lear
Tel:(709) 764-8801, (709) 722-9396
email: kathrynlear@yahoo.ca
For show information click here.
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