Graeme Burge’s practice investigates the relationship between identity and particular Australian subcultures. His sculptural works are developed through a sociological perspective relating to social constructs, such as the use of commoditised and iconic goods to convey psychological meaning and create identities. These constructs are explored using industrial automotive repair processes and domestic customising techniques to focus on a material engagement with the objects of car culture. The sculptural emblems and totems are metaphors for communicative acts within car culture and are developed through a reflexive process where physical form can dictate the resolution.

The final result is guided by reflecting on modern technologies and other significant issues that directly impact Australian car culture. For instance, an economic down-turn saw the closing down of motor corporations leaving strong connections and affinities to Australian made cars in a state of turmoil. This particular work also includes ideologies of greener energy sources versus fossil fuels, which have caused a shift in social paradigms and further disrupted connections to car culture. The work aims to contribute to social dialogue by challenging the way individuals negotiate an identity via commodities.

Winner of the 2010 Invitation Art Prize