Art News

Out of this world

The photographic art and writings of R J Poole, which go on show next Thursday, December 16, at the Lismore Regional Gallery, reflect the many and varied interests of the artist himself. These interests have been combined over the past 20 years to form what Poole calls the Anima Series. The Latin word anima literally means breath or life, however, there is a second, deeper meaning to the term which better explains the artist's work.

"The word anima was used by Carl Jung to describe the feminine side of the male psyche," said Poole. "I have chosen to express this part of me because I've always been strongly aware of it. The closest and most lasting friendships I've had in life have all been with women. My experience is that women are more inclined to express their inner self than are men, so it makes sense to me that I should give this part of my experience a female face."

Symbols play a key part in Poole's work. His images do not depict real life events, but symbolise certain ideas and cultural traditions. If you look closely you will not see any power lines or motor vehicles in the background of his photographs, or in fact any reference to the modern world. As R J Poole says, the Anima Series is not about this world, but the world of emotion, ideas and spirit.

This new exhibition will include Poole's first published book, Unio Mystica. It is a book and card set that is designed as an aid to self-awareness, and Poole believes it will be of great interest to anyone involved in personal development, new age culture, tarot cards, symbols and the esoteric.

Poole will open this new addition to the Anima Series at the gallery next Thursday from 6pm, and anyone is welcome to join the festivities. His works will be on show until February 5 next year.