Rebecca Hannon: Contemporary Camouflage

Camouflage means “to blend into”, to conceal oneself in one’s surroundings so as to protect oneself, to go unnoticed, or to become a predator in order to survive. Coloration is the principal form camouflage takes in nature. Adapted by the military in the 18th century, camouflage, in the form of prints of colours that blend with their surroundings, was widely used for protection and to mislead the enemy, as well as for reconnaissance. But the most impressive examples, by far, are the WWI warships with their disruptive camouflage, also known as dazzle camouflage. Attributed to Norman Wilkinson, the British marine artist, these paintings, with their complex motifs made up of irregular lines in contrasting colours, create optical illusions that were meant to confuse the enemy.

These warships come close to being works of art, due to the optical effects, falsely modified volumes and overall structure, depth and superimposition effects, and both the harmony and disruptive nature of the colours used. One is reminded of Constructivism, Futurism or Cubism. To conceal or reveal: such is the paradox of this subterfuge!

According to Rebecca Hannon, the act of wearing jewellery leads to this same idea. The person who wears a wedding ring or religious pendant or medal reveals only a very small part of herself. These objects are symbols of belonging, of status and identity; their references are obvious. However, in wearing contemporary jewellery, one displays or reveals oneself, with a form of communication inevitably occurring. The spectator questions the work, and the wearer’s choice. In contemporary jewellery, camouflage is rare.