Andrew Kenny

www.andrewkenny.net



My work consists of video, painting and sculptural works which explore how concepts of reality, the occult and the paranormal are formulated according to individual belief systems. Through these explorations I question how individual perceptions of reality merge and form new periods of technological and scientific advancements. Combining elements of Victorian beliefs and the modern, my interactive sculptural work is a play on the old and the new. Through this interactive element I pinpoint this connection between personal beliefs and mass reactions, whilst also giving attention to the unconscious beliefs pervading science, religion and the paranormal. Through the juxtaposition of traditional and contemporary materials and technologies, the work conveys a sense of nineteenth century side-show attractions whilst referencing obliquely the electronic advancements of today.

The Obelectronicscope is a interactive installation that allows the viewer to explore a computer generated gallery space, (the space would be a virtual version of the real gallery space) in which there would be a selection of new work. This virtual work plays on ideas of the real space. It consists of a 360 degree rotational chair and motion tracked headset, which allows the viewer to freely explore the environment. This work as well as my video work explore ideas of subconscious abilities such as out of body experiences, ideas of spirits, doppelgangers etc.
My recent video work further explores the issues regarding the paranormal and the unexplained by presenting a number of themes such as dowsing, spontaneous images, out of body experiences and mind over matter. The work draws on film and videogame culture as well as the writings and ideas of a variety of writers such as Charles Fort, Carl Jung, Colin Wilson and Lylall Watson among others.
Andrew Kenny graduated from the Wexford School of Art with a BA (Hons) in Fine Art in 2008 having previously studied for three years at the Gorey School of Art. Since graduating he has undertaken extensive research in various paranormal phenomena including spirit photography, thoughtography, psychic phenomena, ESP, telepathy etc and which has led to these 2 body of works - A Helping Hand to Little Frogs and Periwinkles and Felt.