Petipoint Iron (Domestic Science series)
John Klein
Oil on marmoleum in white wood float frame
20cm x 20cm
$350
ARTIST STATEMENT
In this body of work, John continues his exploration of the profound transformation of the domestic space throughout the 20th century, driven by technological innovation and the evolving role of design in everyday life. The works presented reflect the intersection of art, functionality, and the changing dynamics of home life, with a particular focus on the electronic devices that revolutionised domestic chores and reshaped the way we live.
The 20th century saw the rise of the "modern home"—a space where form and function merged in exciting new ways. Domestic design became more streamlined, efficient, and accessible, reflecting broader societal shifts toward convenience and the growing reliance on technology. John's work interrogates this relationship, asking how these technological advancements both simplified and complicated our understanding of domesticity, labour, and identity.
WHAT IS MARMOLUEM?
Marmoleum is a modern form of linoleum which became a popular floor covering in the 1950s. Unlike other types of flooring that are made from synthetic materials, Marmoleum is made with a combination of linseed oil, which is derived from flax seeds, wood flour, and jute, a natural fibre often used to make floor coverings.
How is Marmoleum Made? - To create this special type of flooring, flax plants grow linseed, which is harvested and pressed before producing the oil. Manufacturers then heat the linseed oil and mix it with rosin (the solid form of resin) to create a linoleum cement.
Afterward, they add natural pigments such as wood, saw dust, and limestone, which creates a variety of colours. The coloured sheets are pressed onto a jute backing before a water-based finish is applied, which maintains its colour and helps keep the product clean.
Marmoleum is considered a sustainable flooring choice because: The raw materials are obtained from their natural habitat where they grow and renew. The production process uses 100% renewable energy. The photosynthesis of the biobased materials used in Marmoleum absorbs more CO2 than is emitted by production and transportation
ARTIST BIO
John Klein is a contemporary Australian artist who has been engaged in creative pursuits his entire career. His love for the visual arts has seen him drawn to the mediums of film, photography and painting. He has been a finalist in a number of prestigious art prizes including the Mosman, Kennedy and Gallipoli to name a few.
John enjoys collecting various objects which often become the subject matter for his unique still life paintings. He is an avid gardener which is also reflected throughout his floral subjects.
“I have been collecting vases and other objet d’art for the last thirty years. I am most interested in the designs from the arts and crafts, art nouveau and art deco periods, and these appear regularly in my paintings. Some of the vases I own and others I covet. My interest in gardening and art was encouraged by my father, who was also an artist and trained under the legendary Rayner Hoff at East Sydney Technical College (now the National Art School) in the 1930s.”
Whilst sometimes appearing decorative in nature, art collectors readily engage with John’s work through the deeper commentary on significant craftsmanship and tradition. John seeks to document and highlight a discussion about both quality design in our everyday utilitarian items, along with the restorative force of the bloom – a life force in nature.
His paintings are held in private collections in Italy, France, Germany, USA, United Kingdom and throughout Australia.
John works from a home studio that he built in his attic. A quirky, light-filled space with lovely tree-top views – a great place to spend time creating art. John's studio is located in Sydney's leafy northern suburbs and visitors are welcome to visit his studio by appointment. Please call o4oo 656 962 or email johnklein@ozemail.com.au to a arrange a suitable time.
John has completed numerous commissions and enjoys collaborating with clients to bring their vision to life. He also licenses his work and welcomes enquiries.
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