A Finalist in the Gallipoli Art Prize 2012
The Gallipoli Art Prize Competition commenced in 2006 and will be conducted
annually up to and inclusive of the Centenary Year 2015.
The Gallipoli Art Prize is awarded to the artist who best depicts the
spirit of the Gallipoli Campaign as expressed in the Club’s “Creed”: “We believe that within the community there exists an obligation for all
to preserve the special qualities of loyalty, respect, love of country, courage
and comradeship which were personified by the heroes of the Gallipoli Campaign
and bequeathed to all humanity as a foundation for perpetual peace and universal
freedom”.
The Gallipoli Art Prize is now well-attended by the Media. This year there were 143 submissions by artists and 43 paintings were selected for the finalists. My painting was one of the 43 selected finalists. The judges included John McDonald, Jane Watters, Barry Pearce, Craig Hickey.
The
Gallipoli Art Prize has been awarded to Geoff Harvey, who best depicts
the spirit of the Gallipoli Campaign as expressed in the Club’s Creed. I think Geoff Harvey deserves the winning prize, although there were so many who could have deserved the prize as well. But in this game, there is always only ONE winner.
About my painting
Title: The Reflective Soldier
Medium: Oil on canvas
Size: (100 cm x 100 cm)
Description
of the Artwork
This
painting is dedicated to all the Australian and New Zealand heroes who have
sacrificed their lives for perpetual peace and universal freedom. Their
courage, respect and love and loyalty of country are very much appreciated by
Australian and New Zealand people. This painting is cubist style, inspired by
the work of Pablo Picasso. I was particularly thinking of Sir Charles Kingsford
Smith (1897-1935) when I painted this picture. He was a true Australian hero
who in World War I, fought at Gallipoli and flew with Britain’s Royal Flying
Corps. However, this painting is entitled “The Reflective Soldier” because this
hero can be anyone we know or think of in particular. I tried to imagine what
could go on in our heroes’ minds during their war duties. Hence, in this
painting, many emotional expressions are simultaneously portrayed: braved,
strategic, committed, determined, caring, yet cautious, mindful, uncertain and
anguished. By covering part of the face, an emotion can be reflected. The
colours of the Australian flag as the background reflect the love and pride of
the country – the reason why they are out there. One extra star point in the
flag is dedicated to the New Zealand heroes. I hope that this painting will
help us recognise how we have become who we are now and how fortunate we are to
have these heroes to protect our countries and regions for perpetual peace and
universal freedom.
Here are some more photos of my paintings, the prize announcement event and other paintings I found facinating.
This is me in front of my painting "The Reflective Soldier"
Geoff Harvey in front of his painting "Trench Interment"
Some journalists around looking for the best painting and writing stories
Some journalists around looking for the best painting and writing stories
"I Was Young When I left Home" by Paul Ryan
"They Wore Feathers (Uncle Jim)" by Peter Gardiner (Left); "Todd #1" by Alan Jones (Top right); and "Cpl of the Light Horse -- Baluchi (The Spirit is Still Alive)" by Russell K. Fuller (Bottom right)
"Garden of Remembrance, 2012" by Leo Robba
"Wipe Away Your Tears" by Craig Waddell
"The Memorial" by Bill Nix
"Special Bond" by Sharyn Jones (Top); "Cenotaph" by Craig Handley (Middle); and "Poppies" by Judy Paradice (Bottom)
Geoff Harvey contemplating
Nick Zhi Bi being proud of the Reflective Soldier
The artist posting
Save the Best for Last!
Acknowledgments
Thanks go to Damir Jambrek for his love, support and encouragement. Damir has brought the best out of me. Thanks also goes to the Gallipoli Memorial Club, the judges and specifically to Mr John Szetu for organising this wonderful event for artists to be part of this significant tribute to all the war heroes. Thanks also extended to my family and friends who are always there when I need you and your kind support.
Public Exhibition
Tuesday, 24th Aprilto end on Friday 11th May 2012 between the hours of 10AM to 5PM every day, except for a public holiday, 25th April.
Address
Gallipoli Memorial Club Ltd - Level 2, 12 Loftus St, Sydney NSW (Close to Circular Quay Train and Bus Stops) T: 9235 1533 F: 9235 1577
Lest We Forget!
Happy ANZAC Day 2012!
