[no title: p. 33] 1970

Curator: This intriguing piece, simply titled "no title: p. 33," is by Esq Tom Phillips. Note the original page is from a book, over which the artist has layered ink drawings. The date is unknown. Editor: It feels quite explosive, doesn’t it? The radiating lines of ink create a sense of energy, like words bursting outwards. And then these phrases highlighted in red – “two necromancers, love,” “coloured it with colours” – very evocative. Curator: Phillips is known for his altered book works. I’m drawn to how he physically manipulates existing materials, questioning our traditional notions of authorship. He’s essentially repurposing mass-produced paper and ink. Editor: Yes, and the highlighted fragments become talismans, almost. Necromancers and ambition – these words resonate with a dark, romantic symbolism. They hint at hidden stories within the original text. Curator: For me, it speaks to the power of intervention and the act of physically transforming a found object. He subverts the original intent, creating a new narrative from pre-existing labor. Editor: It’s true; the original context is transformed. It's a powerful reminder that symbols shift meaning across time and within new contexts. I see so much buried in that page. Curator: Exactly. The means of production meets symbolic weight. Very interesting.