Variety the spice for art
IN BOOK two of William Cowper’s tedious but insightful poem The Task (1785), he writes about “variety being the spice of life”, a sentiment that finds resonance with vastly different local and regional exhibitions.
This weekend marks the beginning of the DOWNLANDS ART EXHIBITION which is on show all through carnival week.
The gala event is a celebration of creativity epitomized by more than 200 local, national and international artists.
Australian artists such as Norman Lindsay, Hugh Sawrey, John Percival, David Boyd, Tim Storrier, Geoffrey Proud, Rex Backhaus-Smith, and Scott Redford are but a few of those who represent significant investment opportunities.
There is serious art and there is flippant and appealing art. There are ceramics, jewellery, and amazing, exquisite sculptures. There are mood-filled landscapes by Charlie Boyle, carefully crafted still life studies from Catherine Ketton, and volumes of decorative works.
Colour and things floral offer moments of eye-catching delight. This is especially true of the vibrant paintings by Diana Battle who is this year’s featured artist. The popular local artist is known for her integration of colour, shape and form dappled by the play of light and shadow.
The exhibition is open 10am-4pm daily until September 28. Adults $7.50, concession $5 and school students and children free.
FIRST COAT STUDIOS, 6 LAUREL ST, is presenting the exhibition, “Left, Right, Revolt” a body of work by Brisbanebased artist Rene Danika.
In using potentially toxic materials such as spray paint, synthetic fur, enamel, and adhesive tape the artist makes a statement about rejecting the trappings of tradition.
This is emphasised by seething surfaces contained in ornate frames and accompanied by various examples of taxidermy.
Danika has covered everything in lashing of bitumen which sucks in the light and obliterates detail as if existence has been caught and frozen in an enormous black oil slick. THE PROJECT SPACE AT FIRST COAT STUDIOS IS SHOWING “REM SLEEP,” a debut exhibition by Davina Else.
The series of oil paintings are peaceful yet ominous, showing people sleeping surrounded by symbols of comfort and concern.
The viewer becomes the artist’s accomplice, visually eavesdropping on private moments and dream-scapes.
A little disconcerting, but curiously appealing is “Resting Heads”, a pair of tiny clay heads sleeping on small pillows. THE ROSALIE GALLERY IN GOOMBUNGEE recently hosted a particularly rewarding exhibition, “Potting it all Together-Kulpi State School”.
The work was created by students from Prep through to Year 6 and made possible through a grant from the Flying Arts Alliance.
Each child worked with a parent, grandparent, or community member under the instruction of ceramic artist Dianne Peach.
They made plates, cylinders, and pinch pots, learned about glazes and firing, and built three kilns. The result: a little alchemy, a lot of magic, and a stunningly impressive show!