Laith McGregor - Biro Art
Laith McGregor takes the humble biro into uncharted territory
By Rhiannon Elston
Laith McGregor works in biro ("they're Bic, by the way") are not your average schoolkid scribbles. His luminescent blue figures are intricately detailed, and gaze with such hypnotic intensity it's easy to believe that they're inspecting you, and not the other way around.
"I like the idea that biros are such a commodity," the artist says. "Everyone uses them on a daily basis, but not too many people draw with them."
The figures themselves are pensive and cartoonish, with grossly elongated facial hair; one, Balloon Beard, is a self-portrait - "with a ridiculously huge beard. I was thinking about the beard being this prosthetic substitute for a male authenticity, with phallic connotations. It still makes me laugh." The Melbourne-based artist takes his inspiration from his close surroundings.
"The majority of the subjects in my work are friends and family, although my earlier work related to historical figures, people of influence and notoriety." The intimacy of drawing loved ones helps McGregor to focus on the details. "If I had to choose a favourite, it would probably be the biro drawing of my Dad, who kinda looks like Jesus."
Laith McGregor is one of four artists under 30 showing at Sullivan & Strumpf Fine Art, August 12-31.
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