Representing the ineffable aspects of God has been a goal of artists across thousands of years, each bringing their own skills and belief systems to their art. The practice of Melbourne-based artist Rebecca Dzartov is informed not just by her faith, but also by her work as a tattoo artist. In Jam Doughnut, we see a medallion surrounded by motifs commonly seen in tattoos – axes, roses, bones and skeletons. Tattoos have sometimes been a symbol of rebellion, fitting given the subject of this piece. Within the medallion, its edges picked out in recycled plastic, is a surreal landscape within which a parted head hovers. The inspiration is the biblical tale of Eve, who rebelled against God and was punished by being thrown from the Garden of Eden and cursed with pain in childbirth. The artist was thinking of the travails of 19th century Christian doctor James Young Simpson – the doctor incited a furore by popularising the use of chloroform to ease the pain of giving birth. God cursed women with pain, but, as Simpson pointed out, put Adam to sleep before removing his rib. Dzartov meditates about the question of God’s intention in this dreamlike and eerie piece. The artist’s unknowable world asks questions with no answer, leaving the audience to explore for themselves.
Above: Rebecca Dzartov, Jam Doughnut, 2024. Acrylic, oil and recycled plastic on canvas, 60 x 76cm. $1,800. COURTESY: THE ARTIST.