Aegis

According to Homer’s Iliad, the aegis was a mythical piece of armour bestowed by the gods Zeus and Athena, bearing an image of the head of Medusa and offering divine protection. In common usage the term has come to mean a source of protection offered by a powerful benefactor.

These paintings depict suits of armour both as historic and cultural objects and as symbols of power, identity and disguise.

Tom Helyar-Cardwell’s practice sits within a tradition of contemporary object painting, with direct reference to the still life painting of the Northern Renaissance. Objects from various periods in cultural history are chosen for their potential to carry multi-layered meanings. These items are re-presented through painting as sites for symbolic narratives that reflect on the societies that produce and value them.

Helyar-Cardwell studied MA Fine Art at Wimbledon College of Art, and is currently undertaking practice-based PhD research in painting at Chelsea College of Art & Design.

www.tomhc.com