Richard Hawkins' 'Lust for Evil' Sequences at Treadler, Auckland

Richard Hawkins presents three distinct sequences—'The Lust for Evil Sequence,' 'The George and Goliath Sequence,' and 'The Böcklin and Berdella Sequence'—at Treadler gallery in Auckland. The exhibition showcases Hawkins' ongoing exploration of desire, violence, and art historical references, blending found imagery with painterly gestures. Hawkins, a Los Angeles-based artist known for his provocative collages and paintings, draws on sources ranging from classical mythology to true crime, creating works that challenge conventional boundaries. The show at Treadler marks a rare New Zealand presentation of his work, offering local audiences a chance to engage with his unique visual language. The sequences, while distinct, share thematic threads, examining the intersection of beauty and horror. Hawkins' practice often involves appropriating images from magazines, art history, and pornography, recontextualizing them to question the viewer's gaze and the construction of desire. The exhibition is accompanied by a series of images documenting the installation, providing insight into the spatial arrangement of the works. Treadler, a contemporary art space in Auckland, continues its program of showcasing international artists, and this exhibition underscores its commitment to presenting challenging and thought-provoking art.