The Coco de Mer Gallery presents James Ostrer’s first solo exhibition Death, Sex and Re-birth. For this exhibition the artist will present a new body of work exploring themes such as gluttony, sexual compulsion, and addiction all of which he draws upon autobiographical experiences.

His dramatic and dream-like photographic projects are dipped in dark humour. Scenes are constructed to pose simple psychological questions such as: “Who am I, without my fear and vices?” In short, they are a confession to his wavering lack of self.

In some images he uses physical hideousness in order to present his inner self and to articulate these fears. The photographs act as symbolic self-portraits, expressing his gluttonous desire to consume and the consequences of that drive. For example women are reduced to lumps of raw meat; a cold unsatisfying meal.

In his series of confronting and intimate family portraits the artist explores the greater issue of human vulnerability and the fear of loss. By depicting his father pregnant he confronts the paternal repulsion of pregnancy. By replacing his mother with himself during his birth he apologises for his existence or takes full responsibility for himself. And by callously laying his family members on cold morgue slabs he confronts his terror of their inevitable demise.

His third project, a documentary essay of a friend on his deathbed in full vivid colour juxtaposed with grainy black and white photos depicting the same friend supposedly full of life enjoying purchased sex on holiday. In this installation Ostrer heightens the distance between these two experiences, one seemingly dreadful but ultimately real the other supposedly a pleasure but ultimately a fraud.

These works are not presented to shock but to invite the viewer to reflect on the darker aspects of human nature whilst having a forgiving undertone that accepts human fragility. The artist is not just inviting the viewer to look closer at themselves but also to confront their shadows.

Founded by Sam Roddick, Coco de Mer is an opulent emporium which celebrates erotica and sensuality at a luxury level. With existing stores in London and Los Angeles, the newest retail venture has just opened on Draycott Avenue in South Kensington. Coco de Mer is excited to host the first exhibition by James Ostrer at the Coco de Mer Gallery.

JAMES OSTRER - ‘DEATH SEX AND RE-BIRTH’
Runs from 24 June – 29 August 2009
Coco de Mer Gallery
108 Draycott Avenue
London SW3 3AE