Though we try to stay away from the word “contemporay”, with its association with “foyer art” and the like, we have to admit that the lowbrow/illustration/urban styles of art probably, and I can’t believe I’m saying this, could actually be defined as “contemporary” but really, fuck it, what’s in a name anyways?

The Origin of Fur and Whiskers comes with that word attached, but nonetheless, the artists in it are wide and varied, with urban, classical, fine and explorative all meshed together under a theme that is dear to our hearts – animals!!

“Since the dawn of time humans have been inspired by animals as a central element in art and our lives, as a source of food, travel and companionship. The cave paintings of early tribes, the Ancient Egyptians animal headed gods and the mythical creatures in Greek mythology functioned to invoke animal spirits or were worshipped in spiritual practice.

What is it about animals that inspires artists today? Their human qualities, physical beauty, their innocence, characteristics that we admire like the special ability to see in the dark. Animals have telepathic powers and extra sensory perception. The symbolism of animals is an individual interpretation depending on the artist’s cultural background and personal symbols. One could be drawn to the power of a lion, a bird’s freedom, elegance of felines, grace of a swan, or the wisdom of an owl.

We have strong bonds with the animal kingdom and have more in common with them than we realise. Humans have animalistic instincts that motivate our behaviour. Our instincts drive us in every aspect of our life. The animalistic urge to survive, the instinct of fear warns us of danger, the instinct to procreate is vital to perpetuate the species.

Can you imagine a world without animals?”

No, no we cannot, and we refuse to entertain the notion! Head down to Off The Kerb to check it all out, and see some menagerie of animal friends. Oh, and it’s a charity as well – proceeds from the show go to the Lost Dogs Home –  so that clinches it for us.

Who: Aaron Billings, Alicia Centofanti, Basak Savcigil, Cara Gallina, Cezary Stulgis, Chloe Mann, Curran James, Jacqueline Gwynne, Kaitlyn Gibson, Katrina Young, Lorena Monsalves, Luka Va, Mike Makatron, Nick Heynsbergh, Peter Eglezos, Rosie Royston, Sai-Wai Foo, Tim Collins, Trish Leone, Tristan Davies, Tul Suwannakit
What: The Origin Of Fur and Whiskers
Where: Off The Kerb Gallery, 66B Johnston St, Collingwood‎, ‎Melbourne,
When: Show opens Friday 5 October 6-9pm
and runs from 5-19 October 2012

Check out the Facebook event page for more info on the show!