Selected works from RMIT Culture collections and International Collections

Claude Monet, The Japanese Footbridge, 1899

My Pa is a passionate painter, something he took up as a hobby many years ago. Claude Monet has always been his greatest inspiration. I have fond memories of him showing as various works from Monet, the most memorable being this painting. Last year I was fortunate enough to see some of Claude Monet’s work in New York, and the experience still brings me to tears. I hope to visit Monet’s garden one day to physically see this little bridge that fills me with love and joy.

Claude Monet

The Japanese Footbridge, 1899

Oil on canvas

81.3 x 101.6 cm

Original from the National Gallery of Art

Artwork link: https://www.nga.gov/collection/art-object-page.74796.html

Godwin Bradbeer, Swan of Trespass - Diptych, 2001/2011

This piece reminds me of my relationship with dance as the first ballet that I ever saw was Swan Lake. The ballet is elegant and delicate as it follows the tragic tale of love. A main aspect of the ballet is the two swans, Odette and Odile, who is commonly portrayed by the same dancer. The dancer must therefore display a duality, showcasing the gentile nature of Odette as well as the fiery spirit of Odile. When I see this piece I am reminded of this duality, of the two characters who shadow one another.

Godwin Bradbeer

Swan of Trespass - Diptych, 2001/2011

Chinagraph, graphite, pastel dust and silver oxide on heavy grade hot pressed acid free fabriano paper 93 x 276cm (diptych, each panel 93 x 138cm)

Purchased through the RMIT Art Fund, 2013 RMIT University Art Collection