Reviewed by: mindshare
Review by Louise Pascale | 05 March 2025

Chloe Noble's solo exhibition at the Adelaide Fringe is a profound exploration of the intricate relationship between memory, place, and mental health. Combining painting, digital art, and poetry, this exhibition invites us into a deeply reflective space.

The artworks capture the essence of places that have shaped the artist, evoking complex feelings tied to memories that linger in domestic life. Noble’s vibrant yet haunting pieces depict familiar settings—a kitchen, bedrooms, and living spaces—transforming them into almost characterless shells that resonate with emotional depth. It is characterless in that there is no one in the space, yet the poetry sitting alongside tells a deeply personal experience within it. These visuals evoke a paradoxical comfort and discomfort, suggesting the mundane can be the backdrop for profound struggles.  

The poetry with these pieces articulate experiences of domestic violence, chronic pain, and mental health challenges. With illness referencing a love that “bruises softly but never quite heals” offers insight into the emotional turbulence of relationships. The rawness of the language juxtaposes against the beauty of the visuals, creating a visceral experience that shines a light on the shadows.  

Noble’s work serves as a reminder of the silent battles many individuals face within the constraints of their environments. Even in spaces that should provide safety, the sense of entrapment can be palpable. The thematic culmination of "a house not a home" speaks to the disconnect many experience in their own lives, urging viewers to reflect on their relationships with physical spaces and their relationship to it.  

Overall, this exhibition is a moving tribute to resilience amid struggle, offering a safe space for dialogue around complex subjects of mental health and domestic trauma. Noble invites us to confront and understand the profound impact our environments have on our emotional landscapes.