‘Bugger’ is one of those words that can be very inappropriate when used in certain situations; a word of suspect origins, referring to even more suspect behaviour.
Despite that, it’s always been a popular expression for describing particularly negative situations...especially in the bush. For example, right now there’s been ‘bugger-all’ rain in many parts of the country.
Bugger-all, the exhibition, explores this ubiquitous expression in the context of rural adversity. These mixed media artworks are informed by oral histories, experiences, stories and characters, such as the ‘not-so-jolly‘ swagman. In this context the works reference the intertwining of history and local anecdote, by combining images, text, and materials such as bitumen, tin and pigment. Whilst these materials mimic and celebrate the rich vocabulary and nuances of the un- tamed environment these works also locate human endeavour and humankind’s misguided attempts to dominate and subdue the land.
One example is the ‘swaggie’ symbols, commonly used during historical times of great homelessness. These markings were found carved or chalked into surfaces along popular travellers’ routes. They provided important information of experience, warned of potential danger, advantage or opportunities, linked to specific homes or towns.
Whether it’s from the perspective of Lawson’s Drover’s Wife or a struggling farmer trying to make a living - the ubiquitous use of ‘bugger-all’ sets the scene. The use of the term by those suffering drought, isolation, low market prices or lack of understanding, adds ironic humour or absurdity to, often dire, situations.
Bugger-all crop, bugger-all rain, bugger-it, bugger-off, buggering about, it’s just buggered, bugger the thing, a miserable bugger, or, really buggered it up ... it’s just a bugger.
To view available works from this series please make your enquiry through the
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