Joel Kyack's 'Old Sailors Never Die' exhibition at François Ghebaly Gallery showcases restrained surrealism
The 2014 exhibition 'Old Sailors Never Die' by Joel Kyack marks the second showcase in François Ghebaly Gallery's new location. While Kyack is recognized for his bold aesthetics, this display adopts a more subdued approach, focusing on themes of mystery. Among the standout pieces is 'Megalodon' (2014), a ten-foot shark jaw constructed from wooden boards and kitchen knife blades. A significant installation features a video depicting a man alone on a boat with a palm tree, highlighting feelings of isolation. Additionally, 'Water Level' consists of a clear hose filled with dyed blue water, contrasting with the intricate dining area of 'NIGHT – INT. SHIP – DINING TABLE'. The press release poses ten questions that delve into the emotional essence of the exhibition. Kyack's earlier show in 2011 was titled 'Escape to Shit Mountain'.
Key facts
- Joel Kyack's exhibition 'Old Sailors Never Die' opened in 2014
- The show was held at François Ghebaly Gallery
- This was only the second exhibition in the gallery's new, large space
- Kyack's previous exhibition at the gallery was in 2011, titled 'Escape to Shit Mountain'
- The central installation features a video of a man adrift on a boat with a palm tree
- A work titled 'Megalodon' is a ten-foot-high shark jaw made from wood and knife blades
- The press release consists of ten multiple-choice questions
- The article was first published in April 2014
Entities
Artists
- Joel Kyack
- Damien Hirst
Institutions
- François Ghebaly Gallery
- ArtReview