Par Tea Trash Talk from 44 Gallon drums by Hawke's Bay duo Amy Lynch and Katie Baptiste of Metal METcALfe Par Tea Trash Talk is a collection based around word play and play is fundamental to our creative practice. Raise an eyebrow, smirk, have a giggle or even blush! All are possible with Par Tea Trash Talk. We are of course talking trash. They use what is considered rubbish to make our artworks. An abundant supply of materials repurposed and reimagined. Metcalfe continue to be led by our material of choice: 44-gallon drums and respond to its character, qualities and of course, it’s colours! Constantly handling and working the material leads them to create artworks that spark conversation, educate, lead the viewer to consider from a different vantage point. All the time playing and having fun whilst we create, and hopefully bringing a giggle or two to you! Scraches, dents and rust patches are all part of the honesty of the material Each artwork is therefore unique! The lettering is lazercut (except for 'rough') but the perimeter is hand cut. Some may come with branding/lettering if you're super lucky! A fixing pack is included with your artwork, enabling it to stand off and away from the wall....creating some great shadows! Size: Colours vary from those pictured (all measurements are approximate) Due to the nature of creating from repurposed drums variations occur and the actual product varies from the picture Caring for your Artwork If your artwork is to be displayed in a dry, indoor location then an occasional dust is required. (Using a yellow duster means that the yellow fluff sticks to the edges….we suggest either a feather duster or a can of compressed air) If you are wanting to display your artworks outdoors then we currently have a couple of options: Given the artworks are made from metal, they will, if left in damp/wet conditions start to rust on any exposed metal. The speed and intensity of the patina depends on the location of the artworks. e.g a seaside location (water + salt) will speed up the process. If you like the natural patina of the artworks, then do nothing and enjoy! If you’d prefer to retain the gallery condition then you can do either of the following… Option 1 - apply two or three layers of clear coat lacquer to back and front (we’d suggest a matte finish). Refer to the manufacturers instructions regarding drying time, application and health & safety procedures. Option 2 - apply warmed beeswax to the artworks using a soft, clean and lint-free cloth. We suggest doing the lighter/brighter colours first, or using a seperate cloth for them. Depending on the location of the artworks this may need doing on a semi-regular basis. Consideration of wall hung artworks outside on wall or fencing. You may decide to hang your artworks outside. In order to prevent potential rust on your wall or fencing, we therefore strongly recommend at least a couple of coats clear lacquer on the back of the artwork. Again, refer to the manufacturers instructions for application, health & safety and drying times.
