The inaugural exhibition by UK-born, Christchurch based artist Ghostcat, AKA Mike Beer, resurrects and redirects the spotlight onto the lost, overlooked and slightly worse for wear elements of Christchurch.
Visitors to Fiksate Gallery from now until May 8 can immerse themselves in a miniature world, one of intricate and grimy detail. A scaled-down skip bin with bits of rubbish scattered around it; a corner dairy with tiny cigarette butts stubbed out on the path outside; electrical boxes and derelict buildings, perfectly replicated right down to the graffiti adorning them. These inconsequential urban objects sit next to Christchurch buildings of the past, from the brightly coloured duo of The Lava Bar and The Volcano Cafe to the neon green M of the Ministry Nightclub.
Ghostcat has spent over a decade in Christchurch and his connection to the city's places and its people is evident in his work, which is largely created by hand. He decided to pursue a career in making art when he became dissatisfied with his life as a carpenter. From a pathway including tattooing and theatre prop production, Ghostcat has since made waves with his scratch-built miniatures. His work not only intricately recreates tiny details, but is also imbued with connections to memory, place, and community, as well as a healthy dose of humour.
The Shadow Town exhibition is on now at Fiksate Studio and Gallery until Saturday May 8.