Satta Presents Spiritual Materialism
The London-based artist takes up residence in Bali for a show featuring mixed media and reclaimed wood
Drawing on a combination of illustration, painting and woodworking skills, Joe Lauder has swiftly put Satta—his line of retro-inspired, handmade cruiser skateboards and accompanying apparel—on the global skate and surf radar. His collaborative work with illustrator and friend Stevie Gee has also caught the attention of the graphic design community in the UK and abroad. Based in South London, Lauder’s approach to art and crafting skateboards is rooted in creatively adapting to one’s environment. On what was meant to be a short holiday in Bali, Lauder was invited to extend his stay at the Deus Temple of Enthusiasm as the space’s artist-in-residence. The Temple is part gallery, part workshop, part cafe and entirely focused on creativity and good vibes. Six weeks later, Lauder’s show “Spiritual Materialism” is now open at the Temple’s gallery—featuring work incorporating found materials, freshly shaped skate decks and reclaimed wood just to name a few.
“‘Spiritual Materialism’ is a collection of artifacts from the spaces in-between,” Lauder explains, “reflections on the human hunger for profundity and although at the same time influenced by a number of cultures, pointing the finger in the direction of our common human heritage.” Drawing on both religious and spiritual iconography, Lauder’s illustration work is complemented by his woodworking prowess.
Lauder teamed up with a local wood expert to make use of discarded hardwood from the island. “He took me out all over the place searching for wood,” Lauder says. “We visited so many different timber mills and then came across this old yard selling only old teak that had been reclaimed from old boats and houses. As soon as I saw it I knew that was what I wanted to work with. I was stoked that it had been something else and I was getting the chance to give it a new life.”
Despite heading to Bali to surf and escape the British summer (i.e. slightly warmer rainy season), Lauder found himself in a familiar location: the studio. “It was pretty tough finding a balance between enjoying the island life and making work for the exhibition,” he says. “I basically shut myself away for six weeks in the studio and then when the [work] was done tried to cram in as much time in the water as possible.”
“Spiritual Materialism” is open now through 28 November 2014 at the Deus Temple of Enthusiasm, located in Canggu, Bali.
Images courtesy of Yulinar Rusman
