Olga Cironis investigates the notion of disguise. What seems like serenity and order on the surface of things can be a mask for panic and madness. She covers and/or embalms discarded domestic objects with pre-loved woollen blankets, taking what has no value and reinventing it with all its history to create a new possibility.

This site responsive work focuses on the history of the building as a residential psychiatric hospital. Each room reflects some of what losing control of one’s mind and environment may mean.

“I am exploring the idea of madness. Madness that is frightening, delightful, memorable, freeing,extreme and dangerous.

Exploring the relationships,differences and the fine line between control and loss of control.

Exploring a sense of displacement, as happens when the music stops and there are no more chairs to sit on. Working on this show I am aware more then ever that we are never very far from madness.

The work I am undertaking at Heathcote Museum and Gallery consists of stitching blankets over found and discarded domestic objects collected over a few years. These objects, loaded with their own history, come to represent something new, and new questions arise from working the two together.”

The artworks invite interaction, such as touching and stroking.  One piece has a sound component activated by touch. It is the experience of touch that I am interested in, and people’s interaction with the pieces.

Cover Up is the inaugural exhibition in a new programme showcasing the practice of a Western Australian guest artist. The exhibition is part of the TILT programme, developed by the City of Melville to support local artists and provide engaging art to the residents and visitors of Melville. Each year an artist is invited to respond to the Heathcote site, with its many layered history, by creating artwork(s)through their chosen or a new exploratory art medium. TILT provides local artists with an opportunity to showcase their work and bring a range of art ideas and practice to new audiences.

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