Bennett Gallery, Benalla Art Gallery.
Rise Ruin Renew Repeat is an exhibition that embodies the cycle of creation and destruction, blending themes of existence, struggle, and transcendence. The exhibition has two distinct halves, each exploring different aspects of this cycle.
One theme is oil paintings on concrete that have been violently disrupted — meticulously crafted works, over 50 hours in the making, shattered into rubble by a hammer in a chaotic flurry. This destruction speaks to the inevitable decay and despair inherent in life.
The other theme is a celebration of life and movement through a series of large paintings inspired by dance. Dance, as a form of expression, connects us to the divine, embodying renewal and the joy of existence. This continues themes from Jason’s previous exhibitions, delving into the duality of humanity, society, and nature itself — the endless cycle of creation, destruction, and rebirth.
To bring his vision to life, Jason collaborated with a diverse team of metal fabricators, dancers, photographers, videographers, musicians, and set builders. His aim is to create an immersive, emotionally resonant experience that lingers with viewers long after they’ve left the space. Unlike previous exhibitions, he has shifted away from a literal narrative, embracing a more ambiguous, emotionally charged approach.
As visitors move through Rise Ruin Renew Repeat, they are invited to experience the visceral push and pull of creation and destruction, each element interwoven to provoke contemplation of our own cycles. This journey through contrasting realms — chaos and order, despair and hope — asks them to reflect on the impermanence of all things and the resilience of renewal. With each artwork, installation, and soundscape, Jason’s hope is to immerse visitors in a space where the remnants of destruction give rise to new beginnings, resonating beyond the gallery walls and into our own cycles of change.
Image: Jason Parker: Rise Ruin Renew Repeat
Photo: Shannyn Higgins
