Rope art reflects intertwined relationships

By Lindsey Turnbull

A fascinating exhibition currently on show at the National Gallery, Medium: The Materiality of Making, seeks to explore how the materials used in the making of art impacts the end product. One aspect of the exhibition explores the notion as to whether how we see art changes our experience of it. The exhibition challenges the viewer to consider not just the artwork but their relationship to it within the gallery space itself.

One stand out piece within the exhibition is an entwined piece of rope entitled: What Holds Us Together, by artist Al Ebanks, which hangs from the ceiling and allows viewers a 360 degrees view of the piece, enhanced by mirrors which surround it, echoing and repeating both the artwork and the viewer’s response to it.

The installation, made from silver thatch rope and metal hardware stands 107 inches tall and is an impressive sight within the gallery.   

Carlo Lee from Al Ebanks Studio+Gallery explained:

“The piece asks a simple question, What Holds Us Together? Exploring the piece showcases the different perspectives viewers share. Showing the intertwined relationships, frayed ends and spaces between,” he said. “The installation’s placement encourages viewers to consider these perspectives.”

Carlo said that the medium was part of the message, whether in how it allows the perspective to be expressed and/or the significance of the material to the story.

“Throughout Al’s career spanning over 35 years, he has used various materials to convey his perspective - with more recent works utilising cardboard, fabric and Styrofoam. Sometimes the various mediums inspire the art that takes shape from it,” he advised.

This series titled ‘What holds us together’ started over 25 years ago and has been explored through several mediums, including clay and canvas, Carlo said.

“This piece uses a historic symbol of what has held this community together, thatch rope. The cultural significance lends to the story of this series in a meaningful way. It takes the viewers on a journey, showing the curves and twists of life, thanks to the great rope makers,” he added.

The materials artists choose to share their perspectives are as important as the story behind it, Carlo advised. In that way, the pieces are connected though the initial choice the artists make to explore their vision.

Fans of Al’s work will be pleased to know he is currently busy exploring a series of cardboard mask sculptures.

Medium: The Materiality of Making runs at the National Gallery until 19th November 2026.