Alternative Media Group

Long-awaited graduation for inner west artists

Author:

Shant Fabricatorian

Posted:

Thursday, 26 August 2010

An exhibition of established and emerging artists, who have spent the past three years studying traditional painting techniques of the ‘Old Masters’ at the Charlie Sheard Studio School, includes the work of two inner-west artists amongst the 16 on display.

‘16 Degrees’, which takes place from September 2 to 20, features a rich array of figurative and abstract artwork – including that of Newtown artist Jennie Pry, who finds herself drawn to nostalgic objects. In particular, these include vintage bathing suits, and the stories – real or imagined – of the women who wore them. Her entry, a continuation of a theme of work entitled ‘Bathing Belles’, reflects her belief that the female form folds and becomes threadbare and worn, but nevertheless remains strong and imposing.

“Bathing suits hide as much as they reveal and expose,” she said. “I’ve wanted to bring out the ‘feminine experience’ – the suits continue to be a rich source of inspiration to explore and understand memory, nostalgia and the transitional phases of womanhood.”

Meanwhile, Glebe artist Susan Ingram explores the world’s metamorphosis at night in her haunting ‘Nightscapes’ series.

“New light sources redefine the landscape,” she said. “Ambiguous shapes, deep shadows, the familiar becoming unfamiliar, and shifts in consciousness are all fare for the night air.”

Tutor Charlie Sheard believes technical accomplishment is the foundation of the creative process and that without in-depth knowledge of the materials, an artist’s progression and development are impossible.

“Each of the 16 artists taking part in this exhibition has spent three years studying, in-depth, the techniques and methods of the 14th-to-19th-century artists, and now understand how to apply the basic principles to create new effects and expand their own practice,” he said.

‘16 Degrees’ exhibits at the Charles Hewitt Gallery, 335 South Dowling Street, Darlinghurst, from September 2 to 20. Viewing times Monday to Saturday, 10am-6pm; call 9331 4988

Jennie Pry, left, and Susan Ingram pose in front of their entries to the ‘16 Degrees’ exhibition

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