Confronting artist visits city
TOOWOOMBA artist Michael Cook doesn't expect visiting performance artist Stelarc's work to be popular.
In fact Mr Cook, who has been friends with the Melbourne-based performer for years, expects it will shock and overawe Garden City residents.
Stelarc (who changed his name legally in 1972) is known globally for his confronting "suspension" installations.
The suspensions involve stainless-steel shark hooks being inserted into Stelarc's flesh.
The artist is then suspended mid-air.
More recently, Stelarc had a false ear inserted under the skin on his forearm.
"You have to remember it is art and that he is an artist," Mr Cook said of controversial pieces.
"His art marries art and science together."
Stelarc will visit Toowoomba on Wednesday, August 22 to present a talk at the University of Southern Queensland.
"Stelarc is one of the premier cross-disciplinary artists in the world exploring the interface between technology and the human body," Faculty of Arts Dean Professor Peter Goodall said.
"This special visit to USQ is an exciting opportunity not only for our staff and students but also for the wider community interested in new frontiers in art and technology."
For more information about the presentation or to book contact music@usq.edu.au
Bookings are essential.
