APPLE, Billy, 1935-
From The University of Auckland Art Collection (Painting)
For artist Billy Apple® (born Barrie Bates in
Auckland) the mechanics of art, usually kept
behind the scenes, have long been a focus for his
work. Throughout the 1970s he executed activity
and installation works that highlighted the
significance of exhibition spaces to the work
exhibited, cleaning windows, painting walls,
adjusting lights. In contrast to the grandiose
paintings made prior to the pop art movement,
Billy Apple was more interested in everyday things
and activities, such as shaving. He was particularly
interested in the fact that it is the artist’s role in
the work that gives it value, just like a brand
name. In 1962, while studying at the Royal College
of Art in London, he changed his name to Billy
Apple, effectively making his own life a work of art,
undertaking a re-branding that included bleaching
his hair, eyebrows and eyelashes. In 2007 Billy
Apple became a registered trademark and then a
registered brand in 2008.
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