In an exhibition of new work titled The Gulf, Kurtjar artist Ian Waldron, showcases his oeuvre developed over many years of practice.
About the show, Ian comments:
Every work that I have ever painted is anchored in The Gulf one way or another. My art is the visual representation of my identity – I am my country. As a title, The Gulf is my homeland, but also an ambiguous reference to a chasm between two worlds.
A collection of acrylic painting, print and sculpture/installation, this show portrays themes and motifs characteristic of Ian’s past work, such as portraits of rural life, symbols of heritage & ancestry and evidence of his early career, painting signage for supermarkets. The artist states, “Recurring motifs in my works comprise characters, sites and memories which are important to me, such as Bloodwood totem and native life on Delta Downs Station up in the Gulf of Carpentaria”.
The diverse mix of works harnesses all of Waldron’s skills; his academic training in the visual arts; techniques learnt as a self-taught ticket writer and as a practitioner across multiple mediums.
Whilst, for this exhibition, Waldron is accessing a reservoir of imagery from his portfolio he presents them in new and experimental ways. Works have been painted and printed on various materials including paper, aluminium, canvas, PVC, acrylic and even cushions.
Overall, the exhibition has a light-hearted and optimist tone. FireWorks Director, Michael Eather states, “Ian’s work remains a positive reinforcement of indigenous people moving forward with dignity, hard-work, pride and a little humour”.
Exhibition opening: Sat 15th July 2-4pm, Artist will be present.
Image: Ian Waldron CSR Sugar 2017 archival ink on Aluboard 55x79cm (vertical)
