Shari Hatt‘s video work and large-scale watercolours currently on show at Galerie Donald Browne tell a story of desire and disappointment. Hatt uses the formulaic structure of humour to expose lazy stereotypes and dash raised expectations. It is fascinating that her work feels so intimate, considering artist absents herself from the physical process of creation: the video piece The Studio Visit was conceived and directed by her, but the camera work as well as the acting is carried out by commissioned artists. The watercolours are also Hatt’s idea but were executed by a painter especially engaged for the task.

By stepping out of the spotlight, Hatt shifts the focus on the concept of the artwork rather than its production. That’s an ingenious act of irony, since The Studio Visit explores the archetypical artist, exaggerated by clown costumes and mime. The actor impersonating Hatt studied her gestures and mannerisms, re-enacting a caricature version of the artist as she paints in her studio. The character of ‘the critic’ is equally exaggerated as he pontificates on a non-existent artwork. But despite the buffoonery, the core of the dialogue is painfully real: hope, judgement, disillusion. Hatt’s work is a poignant commentary on the role of the artist in a world of entertainment.

Galerie Donald Browne, space 528
Shari Hatt
The Studio Visit
August 27 – October 1, 2011
www.galeriedonaldbrowne.com