A solo retrospective exhibition of artworks by Maxine McKee is finally here.

The title of this exhibition sets up the framework for this body of work as it tells a personal story that begins with questions around abandonment, grief and neglect and ends with works that have presented celebrative answers for the artist throughout many years of making and brings closure to this theme.

Many of the artworks have been created over many years in chaptered parts. Although some artworks have been shared throughout the process, this is the first time this work will be shown together with early unseen and new works. 

“Using Drawing, painting and ceramic sculpture, the making process is a lengthy one and at each stage of the process strong messages are communicated which drives the narrative forward”.

In one of the chapters the symbolism is centred around the scarecrow, whose role is to care for the garden. With head down and lifelessness it under performs in its role. The garden is unprotected and is open to intruders where they insert themselves in the space with no regard, in turn, it is desecrated and others who rely on the garden as their life source battle for survival.

“For me, the act of art making is my way of trying to understand answers to many questions.    My themes are universal, yet this work stems from my own personal experiences”.