Drawing Pins on a Cork Board | 2013

Work created for Safaa Erruas of Morocco by Joe Pollitt

Drawing Pins on a Cork Board

Repetition with similar or identical objects will cause patterns to emerge and shapes to materialise. When the object is metal, then light can reflect on or over the surface and facilitate; permitting the shape to have a sense of life, for it is the light that we recognise in others. The spirit that lies inside us all even those that have yet to shine. At first glance, placing drawing pins on a flat and dull cork board seems somewhat pointless and infantile but as the pins are carefully placed with purpose and consideration they serve a different goal. They evolve and with every push, they gather their energy. Building up so as to give voice, shape and movement; basic animation to an otherwise benign framework of a hitherto less than standard inconspicuous notice board. 

In seeking to find meaning in using the most mundane item like a drawing pin, it is possible to breathe life into the most futile. By building up layers of inane pins they start to unite and begin to gather a sense of reason in their togetherness. As the light continues to hit gently at first, then irritating if not persistently rude after awhile, so they mirror into the picture and echo the rays of light absorbed. They start to flash back to the onlooker a brand new vision, a brighter than dull look. What seemed pointless now has become sharp, determined with renewed strength and strong enough to be fit for purpose. The humble drawing pins in their union are clearly projecting a definite beam of a different kind. A glow that acts as if a bonfire to others, a warning to some but also a gentle support to the majority looking on; a reassurance that with the tiniest spot of sunshine, all is possible. To hold onto a fraction of a ray from even the dullest of days is vital. Struggling to survive the imminent threat of darkness that relentlessly intends to cloak the slightest of blazes. By staying as bright as possible, even in the shadows that have been cast, sends out clear messages to those that need them; that all is feasible in the world, as long as we are united with the slim chance that the light will come. And regardless how minor, together we can launch a ray that can spark up at least another fruitful day.  

In finding intense movement from a meaningless article, a life not seen to the naked and lazy eye can capture a glimpse of the anguish felt by all those that have been crowded with darkness. The reaction is quite deliberate and rather simple. By seeing the light flicker, over and over again, with the familiar shape repeating, the reflection on the human retina sees something anew; a clear vision, that previously had been blocked from sight. Often the viewer or critic will focus on a single frame. Failing to take into account the imagination and principle of the intended picture.