JESSICA MURTAGH

Much like Sisyphus, the self-checkout lane has become an eternity of futile labour as a form of hideous punishment. A modern and common scene played out in supermarkets, the dreaded "unexpected item in bagging area" flashes on screens across the globe - much to the consternation of all involved. While a source of fury for many, it is these mundane moments that are some of the great levellers of society. These are the small experiences we all face, understand and can commiserate with our fellow man over. It's moments like these that one can't help feeling united in our collective irritation.

Jessica Murtagh is an Adelaide based glass artist. She uses sand carving and engraving techniques to create narratives on glass, drawing inspiration from classical artefacts of past societies. Murtagh has been a finalist in the Tom Malone Glass prize at the Art Gallery of WA. Her work is held in various collections, including the Powerhouse Museum, the National Gallery of Victoria, Parliament House Art Collection, and the Hamilton Art Gallery.

Self-checkout of Sisyphus, 2023
Blown glass, sand carved and engraved
270mm L x 270mm w x 470mm H
$9,900