Nick Modrzewski (b. 1988) is a Naarm/Melbourne based artist whose work investigates law and social ritual. Densely layered acrylic paintings form the backbone of Modrzewski's practice, where he depicts figures intertwined with legal processes or bureaucratic systems: naked neighbours wrestle over a fencing dispute; a congregation of medieval noses gather to draft legislation; and suited men compete in a plant watering competition. In each of his scenes, Modrzewski picks apart the rules of social engagements, rendering them in a sensuous and fluid painterly language. An abiding interest in narrative, theatre and absurdity define the tone of Modrzewski's works, which also encompass sculpture, text and performance.
