Redefining Identity (2024) is a series of four linked animations displayed side by side across four monitors mounted on a singular wall. It depicts a technofuture-style reimagining of Sydney with a focus on queer identity. Queerness in this artwork is portrayed as normalised rather than glamourised, an ideal future where a non conforming identity is as accepted in society as a cisgender, straight one. Though the art remains grounded in reality and doesn't attempt to show a world that is sunshine and rainbows - rather one that would be considered cyberpunk. It aims to return to the original punk roots of cyberpunk using queerness as its anti-establishment basis, while also showcasing the artists appreciation for the mixing pot culture of Sydney.
Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours)
Screen Arts
Alex Shields, New Contemporaries, 2024, installation Photo: Document Photography
Redefining Identity (1), 2024, Digital Painting
Redefining Identity (2), 2024, Digital Painting
Redefining Identity (3), 2024, Digital Painting
Redefining Identity (4), 2024, Digital Painting
Alex Shields is a screen artist hailing from regional New South Wales. They have a particular interest in animation and cyberpunk aesthetics which heavily inspires their practice. They draw inspiration from city living and the themes around it such as gender identity and expression, mental wellness and community/culture. They’re also a commissions based artist working in the field and are ‘open for work’ for new projects.