RUSSELL KLEYN/
VIRGO

VIRGO is an ongoing collaboration with my friend Ming Ranginui.

We are Virgo’s.

We both independantly make artworks that reference car culture in some way, so there is an underlying vehicular thread that ignites our conversations. These conversations become starting points for our shared practice. Ideas flow via DM’s, delving into Instagram’s endless supply of car references, or while driving around in our cars, or while having lunch. In fact eating together and sharing ideas has become a key part of our practice. We have good laughs and are at our happiest when we are just hanging out and talking nonsense.

Talking and making.

We stay open to chance encounters, allowing our work to be activated by mystery and playfulness, rich in mythic signifiers and cosmic elements, evident in the large scale reflective photographic works Virgo, AMTHST, Artemis and Tohu.

The collaboration has led me beyond the camera, exploring sculptures using car parts and industrial methods. Works such as Playboy, a replica 1995 Ford Laser car bonnet and bon bon, a hyper gloss pink wheel hub sculpture with green smocked fabric cushion. At times the role of the photographer is shared, as I step in front of the camera and Ming becomes the photographer as demonstrated in the photograph Virgo. A playful approach to art making.

Although we come from different backgrounds, countries, generations and work in different mediums, we have shared sensibilities that make for energetic creative exchanges.

An evolving portrait of a relationship and connection.

VIRGO by Russell Kleyn & Ming Ranginui. The Engine Room Gallery. 11th – 24th November 2023.