December 2012 – March 2013
d in nc lu
g
nds Fr ie uide t G Even ay 2013 I
Feb
–M
Friends of the Art Gallery of Western Australia
PICTURING NEW YORK: Photographs from The Museum of Modern Art Photography Talks, Tours and Discussions ADFAS – develop an interest What’s On at AGWA and beyond
www.artfriends.com.au
Contents Artifacts is published three times a year by
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Editor: carola@thewritebusiness.com.au Design: zebra-factory.com Printing: Scott Print FRIENDS’ OFFICE OPENING HOURS
President’s Message............................... 4
Monday 10am–1pm/2–5pm
Membership Update.............................. 4
Tuesday closed
Special Membership Offers................. 5
Wednesday 10am–1pm/2–5pm Thursday 10am–1pm/2–5pm
Rewards of the Volunteer.................... 5
Friday 10am –1pm/2–5pm
Preview..................................................... 6
Saturday & Sunday closed Public Holidays closed Closed 21 December – 16 January
New York in photographs.................... 9 Tours, Talks & Debate.........................11 Women in Photography..................... 12
CONTRIBUTORS
AGWA OPENING HOURS
Carola Akindele-Obe, Lin Arias, Christina
Wednesday–Monday 10am–5pm
A Luminous World.............................. 13
Backus, Madeline Bates, Clotilde Bullen,
Friday open until 10pm for AGWA Nights
Robert Buratti, Christina Chau, Gwen
during MoMA series exhibitions.
NEW! Monthly Tours..........................14
Gaff, Lucy Harper, Louise Jones, Colin
Closed Tuesdays, Good Friday,
Mildon, Louise Morrison, Tanya Sticca
ANZAC Day and Christmas Day.
Made to Remember............................. 15 On your bike!........................................ 16 World Cinema captivates Perth....... 18 A New York Point of View................. 20 Friendship.............................................. 22
Cover Michael Spano. American, born 1949 New York Sights, 2005 gelatin silver print, 27 3/4 x 34 7/8” (70.5 x 88.6 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Lois and Bruce Zenkel Fund. © 2012 Michael Spano
What’s on at the Gallery.................... 23
© 2012: the artists, authors and the Art Gallery of Western Australia Copyright for all images and works is owned by the artists or their representatives. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the Friends of the Art Gallery of Western Australia. The Friends and the Art Gallery of Western Australia do not necessarily endorse statements and opinions expressed within.
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artifacts december 2012–march 2013
3
President’s Message
Membership Update
Robert Buratti
Gwen Gaff, Executive Officer
Drew, Phillida Preston and Karine Carroll; Megan Anderson Christina Backus (photography), whom all provide much valued
A
accommodate the growing number of volunteers. My gratitude goes to Friends office volunteers Anne-Marie (media), Friends Council Member Kay Campbell (advertising) and
Modern Masters, the Friends are busy
have lost touch with the Gallery, we’d like
I
popular Picasso to Warhol: Film Festival,
generous sponsors Jane Brook Estate Winery and Comestibles, for
preparing for what will be a fantastic
to offer a ‘welcome back’ offer of $45 for a
and tours of the Fourteen Modern Masters
their enduring support.
event program for the highly anticipated
single annual membership, and for existing
exhibition. At Jeff Wall Photographs,
follow-up, Picturing New York. Readers will
members, we’d like to offer a discounted
Gary Dufour, Chief Curator and Deputy
for the first half of 2013 and the upcoming ADFAS series, can
notice this edition is particularly focused
renewal fee when you refer a colleague or
Director of AGWA, gave Friends an
be found in the centrefold of this edition of Artifacts. Tickets are
on the art of photography. MoMA was
friend to join at the introductory rate of $45.
intimate insight into the work of this
already available so make your bookings soon.
one of the early supporters of the medium,
This also extends to Gift memberships, so
pre-eminent photographer. The exclusive
and began collecting modern photography
remember that Christmas is only weeks away,
behind the scenes tour of the Conservation
in 1930, later establishing a dedicated
and there’s no better gift than the love of art!
Laboratory and Print Room, was a
department in 1940.
For further details, phone the Friends office.
highlight on our calendar.
s we draw to the close
This month the Friends are offering a
of the first MoMA exhibition,
special membership promotion for new and
the Picasso to Warhol: Fourteen
existing members. For past members who
The Museum’s holdings of more than
As this is my last column in Artifacts
n 2012 Friends enjoyed a breadth of events in support of the
assistance for the development of Friends. Thank you to AGWA Director Dr Stefano Carboni, AGWA
Gallery’s exhibitions, including the
staff, the artists, galleries and industry colleagues in Perth and our
The Friends Event Guide, showcasing a rich program of events
I look forward to meeting you at the Friends Christmas Party to celebrate a wonderful year of fellowship and art.
Rewards of the Volunteer Colin Mildon, Volunteer Coordinator, Friends Desk
PS: The Friends Office will be closed over the festive season from 21 December to 16 January.
We have enjoyed street art in
25,000 works constitute one of the most
as President, I’d be remiss to thank my
Northbridge, studio visits to Artsource in
Friends Christmas Party
important collections of modern and
exceptional Council who have stood by me
Fremantle and to our precious local artists,
Sunday 9 December, The Gallery Terrace
contemporary photography in the world,
over my past three years in the Chair. We’ve
represented in our State Collection, Robert
Members $20/Guests $40. Bookings essential.
a selection of which will be showcased in
been through a shaky economy, changes
Juniper AM and Richard Woldendorp AM
D
Perth from January 2013. MoMA’s support
to staffing, a new executive council, and a
in the Perth Hills.
desk on a rostered basis for up to four hours daily and longer when
of the photographic arts strengthened both
renewed focus for the Friends. While the
the market position and public perception
past few years have been a huge amount
provided Friends with an educative series
of the media and it’s a thrill to have such
of work, we can be satisfied with guiding
of lectures and the new ASA International
a quality exhibition at the Art Gallery of
the Friends organisation through one of its
Scholars Series finished on a high with
Western Australia. The 2013 Friends event
more testing periods, and as a result have
charismatic lecturer Dr John Wreglesworth’s
program provides opportunities to become
done our own little bit to strengthen and
fascinating lectures on the history of
Christmas Gift Membership $45
Andalucia and Peru.
Current members can gift a year’s single annual membership
substantial new interest in Friends and the Gallery. In particular,
to a friend for only $45! (Normally $60; offer expires 5pm,
the marked growth in memberships and event participation has been remarkable. Well done team and congratulations!
further engaged with the exhibition and the Gallery as a whole.
enhance the cultural life of Perth. It’s been a pleasure working with you
Our ongoing partnership with ADFAS
Lin Arias, member, told us, I so enjoyed
SPECIAL MEMBERSHIP OFFERS & GIFTS
I’d like to thank Colin Mildon and
all, and a pleasure to be involved with one
the lecture, the refreshments and the company.
Gwen Gaff who have done a fantastic job in
of Western Australia’s leading institutions.
Dr Wreglesworth was a fantastic speaker;
Gift Student Membership $25
to greet visitors to the Gallery. It’s our aim
his knowledge is truly astounding. I was The AGM is approaching and Members
entertained and inspired to learn more.
to make visitors feel as comfortable and
are encouraged to consider nominating for
welcome as possible, and Colin shares the
Council. Reminders will be sent out by email;
Institute of Technology for providing
Friends are indebted to the Central
Council’s feeling that this is one of the most
otherwise contact Gwen Gaff, Executive
us with a much larger venue for our
important services Friends can provide.
Officer: friends@artgallery.wa.gov.au.
ADFAS series. The ‘Friends Desk’ was launched this year with a great team of volunteers and
has been located in the foyer of the Gallery. The ‘Friends Desk’, as it is known, is operated by an enthusiastic group
Full time students will be thrilled to receive a single annual membership including two free ASA or ADFAS 2013 lectures. (Offer expires 5pm, 19 December.) Welcome Back Rate $45 For all past members who haven’t renewed in the last six months or before – rejoin for only $45! (Single 12-month membership only; offer expires 5pm, 30 January.)
the exhibition is open for extended hours. At the time of writing this, the team has contributed a total of 700 voluntary hours. These volunteers promote the work of the ‘Friends’, membership and events, welcome visitors to the Gallery and help to make sure that their visit to AGWA is a happy and memorable occasion. The volunteers work very hard and their efforts have resulted in
The rewards for volunteers are varied; we gain knowledge and personal satisfaction, and we all agree that there is huge pleasure in seeing the glad faces of visitors we have assisted. The Perth Cultural Centre and the Gallery are very much alive and being part of this atmosphere is truly stimulating, especially when you know that your support upholds the principles of the Friends of AGWA. The Friends Desk will close temporarily when Picasso to Warhol concludes on 3 December but will reappear with the opening of Picturing New York: Photographs from The Museum of Modern Art, on 26 January, Australia Day 2013.
in preparation for the second MoMA
2013 ADFAS Season & Membership Package $245
exhibition, Picturing New York we look
Purchase a Season Pass to the ADFAS Lecture Series plus a
We invite you to join our team of volunteers and to enjoy the
forward to welcoming new volunteers
single annual membership and make a considerable saving.
benefits of ‘Friendship’ at AGWA. Volunteering can be as little as
to man the desk. Pop in to see us in the
(Normally $360 for non-members/$300 for existing members; offer
a few hours a month, whatever you can spare and I can assure you,
Friends office, located via the Centenary
expires 5pm, 13 February.)
you will have no regrets.
Left Robert Buratti, Gwen Gaff, Dr Stefano Carboni (Director), Trevor Eastwood (Friends Patron)
To purchase these special offers and gifts contact
Opposite Liz Harrison, Banou Jabbour and Judy Smallman working the Friends’ Desk.
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
uring Picasso to Warhol, a small desk
of Friends of AGWA volunteers. A small team of 12 operate the
19 December.)
organising our team of Friends volunteers
4
Gallery, open to members on weekdays and now refurbished to
www.artfriends.com.au
the Friends Membership Office: 08 9492 6750/ friends@artgallery.wa.gov.au or purchase the ADFAS Season Pass Membership Package online. www.artfriends.com.au
THANK YOU to the following volunteers for their dedicated assistance: Tina Yaqoubi, Doug Tweed, Jenni Ross, Colin Mildon, Christina McDonald, Sue Marshall, Fiona Johnson, Kevin Jackson, Liz Harrison, Allan Green, Marilyn Fowler, Kay Campbell and Robert Buratti. artifacts december 2012–march 2013
5
Preview
Developing an interest – with ADFAS
Introducing the forthcoming season of Friends events
Louise Jones
T
he Friends Event Guide,
artists Toni Wilkinson, Juha Tolonen and
of Indigenous objects will be under the
which you will find in the
Max Pam will be the Artists in Conversation
spotlight in another tour that looks at the
centrefold of this Artifacts, lists
bringing us into the 21st century with
Made to Remember exhibit of works selected
a dozen activities and occasions which
discussion about the development of
from Your Collection.
offer opportunities to develop a deeper
photography in reference to the 20th
connection with the local arts scene as well
century works in the MoMA show.
as the exhibitions at AGWA. Members, friends and families are
Also new in 2013 is a program of
…with renewed knowledge members could then usefully volunteer in their community
Local councils are also important collectors of art, as a way of unique place making, creating a cultural statement and
10 guided tours. Offered monthly from
supporting the local arts. In April you can
invited to engage in lively discussion
February to November each led by an
hop on your bikes and follow a Sculpture
with artists, curators, writers and art
AGWA curator or guide, an artist or
Trail, to view the growing Town of
historians; to learn more about art history,
an erudite guest. The Friends office is
Cottesloe sculpture collection.
contemporary art, design, the decorative
also delighted to offer a Season Pass to
The season would not be complete
arts and architecture; and to support
the popular ADFAS series of lectures –
without the 2013 Annual Fundraiser – an
the Association of Australian Decorative
AGWA in the process.
members can book all six lectures but only
exclusive members only event. It is a rare treat
and Fine Arts Societies (ADFAS) offering a
pay for five! You can read more about the
to view a significant private art collection
fabulous program of lectures for 2013.
origin of the ADFAS lectures opposite.
especially one that is so personal and
A program of photography talks, tours and discussions, has been designed
U
nder the stewardship
of Friends Council member Helen Smith, the Friends
continue their established partnership with
These lectures attract large numbers
eclectic. Friends’ Patron Trevor Eastwood,
and the upcoming series promises to be no
second in the MoMA series at AGWA, and
collections are of constant interest, and this
formerly Chair of AGWA and Wesfarmers,
exception so book early!
will be presented in collaboration with the
season we are extremely lucky to enjoy the
and his wife Judy, are avid collectors of local
Perth Centre for Photography and AGWA
Luminous World of contemporary art from
established and emerging WA artists’ work.
sister association of NADFAS*, a collection
curators. Women in Photography will bring
the Wesfarmers Collection, a sparkling and
Be warned – the limited tickets will sell out
of some 360 societies from all over the
our attention to confronting and sensitive
thoughtful selection of Australian art. Join
fast to the viewing of the Eastwood’s private
United Kingdom with the common aim
20 members each and by 1968 with 200
that’s what they enjoy. But the thought that so
social and cultural issues through the lenses
Helen Carroll, Wesfarmers’ learned curator
collection, so book early!
of ‘promoting and advancing aesthetic
strong they changed their name to the
many are evidently interested in a serious study
of international artists Sonal Kantaria and
for her tour of the exhibition. Reflections
education, the cultivation and study of the
Chiltern Decorative and Fine Arts Society,
of the decorative and fine arts and now have
Rachel Papo. Acclaimed local photographic
on current art practices in the making
fine and decorative arts and the preservation
which remains ‘Society No.1’ in the records
an opportunity to develop that interest really
of our cultural and artistic heritage’.
of NADFAS to this day.
pleases me.
to complement Picturing New York, the
Private, public and corporate art
Friends will know that ADFAS is the
In 1964 Patricia Fay, confined to her
the idea that with renewed knowledge
(UK), had time to contemplate her interest
commenced in 1965, with the first speaker
members could then usefully volunteer
in silver and porcelain. She conceived the
a Miss Millington whose chosen topic was
in their community and this included the
idea of a serious environment in which
Small Antiques in our Homes and she
establishment of Church Recorders. Church
collectors and interested members could
talked to those present about her collection of
Recorders are volunteers that examine,
share and study their common interest and
Victorian teaspoons.
research and document a place of worship
Antiques Group was formed. They invited Opposite left Chief Curator | Deputy Director Gary Dufour with local artists Ann Land and Audrey Welch at the JEFF WALL Photographs tour and floor talk in September 2012.
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artifacts december 2012–march 2013
The Friends Events are organised by a small
If you’ d like to assist with events, please
team of volunteers and Council members, who
contact the Friends office.
create interesting ways for members to interact with the visual arts and AGWA. www.artfriends.com.au
An important part of this study was
that the tradition of informative lectures
together with four friends, the Chiltern
Bookings are essential for all events; see the Friends Event Guide for details.
The Chiltern’s Society history records
bed with an injury in Buckinghamshire
Patricia Fay was determined that the
including its stonework, stained glass
membership would be considered as a serious
windows, its textiles, woodwork, memorials
group and not dismissed as housewives with
and books and then present the church and
little to do. She is reported as having said,
other relevant archives with a ‘record’ of its
One of the initial problems was persuading
history and the provenance of its contents.
potential lecturers that we were worth
NADFAS now has 90,000 members
Opposite right Helen Smith, Councillor and ADFAS Coordinator, with visiting lecturer Mr Keir Davidson.
talking to. And in 1968 Veronica Papworth
worldwide including members in the 34
wrote in the Sunday Express newspaper,
Australian societies which form its sister
Right Hanbury Hall Orangery (18th century), Worcestershire, UK. Photo: Steven Desmond, NADFAS lecturer and Landscape Consultant.
I have absolutely nothing against women
organisation ADFAS.
www.artfriends.com.au
meeting to swap sponge cake recipes or listen to homespun talks on loose cover making – if
ADFAS was started in Australia in 1985 by Patricia Robertson OAM and has
>
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
7
New York in photographs Lucy Harper, Associate Curator of Historical Works on Paper, Art Gallery of Western Australia
P
maintained a strong tradition of volunteers
pieces collected since Henry V111 to the
fiends are in for a treat with Linda Collin’s
in the arts in communities. In particular it
present Queen. Yasha Beresiner uncovers
lecture Hedonistic Paris: Life and Culture of
has embraced the role that the Mechanic’s
the long and colourful history of The
Paris during the Jazz Age 1920-1930.
Institutes and Schools of Art played in the
Jewish East End of London and Friends
history of Australian country towns and
with a passion for visiting historic gardens
bringing of education, culture and art to
will look forward to Steven Desmond’s
our community centres.
lecture From Orangery to Conservatory: the
Make the most of ADFAS in 2013 by
relationship between the two over the course
garden under glass.
purchasing a Season Pass. Only $200
of the twentieth century. As in the outstanding
The 2013 season of ADFAS lectures
* w ww.nadfas.org.uk in reference to Clifford, Dr Helen, A History of NADFAS
icturing New York:
Photographs from The Museum of Modern Art promises to capture the
imagination of and delight all those who have a love for New York or photography, or who are curious to know more about the exhilarating
for six lectures or for $245 we’ll throw
Picasso to Warhol: Fourteen Modern Masters and
are thrilled to have some learned and
of the Tiger in Asian Art are Zara Fleming’s
in a Membership too. Bookings are
in the future four exhibitions coming to the Art
entertaining lecturers coming to Perth.
specialty, and if you’ve ever tried special
always required. See the Friends Event
Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA) from
paint techniques you have to hear from
Guide for details.
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) over the
promises to be fascinating and we
Oliver Everett opens the ADFAS
Inspirational and sumptuous renditions
season in February with his fascinating
Tom Errington about his remarkable work
lecture Treasures from the Royal Collection
Trompe L’Oeil: the art of illusion. Closing the
showcasing some of the most magnificent
season in September, Francophiles and jazz
next two years, all the works in Picturing New Top Military Banner, China, Ming dynasty 16th century, brocaded silk. Courtesy of Jacqueline Simcox Ltd.
York have been drawn exclusively from MoMA’s extraordinary collection. That New York should be the theme for AGWA’s second exhibition from MoMA is entirely fitting. That the Museum’s Curator of Photography, Sarah Hermanson Meister, a New Yorker herself with an established history with the museum’s photography collection, should make the curatorial selection of work is equally befitting. Meister’s selection, which begins in 1888 with a photograph by Jacob August Riis of bandits in Mulberry Street (at the time one of New York’s most dangerous and crime-ridden neighbourhoods) and concludes in the 2000s with fabulous contemporary work by artists including Lee Friedlander, Michael Spano and
Right Walker Evans (American, 1903–1975) Girl in Fulton Street, New York, 1929 gelatin silver print, 7 ½ x 4 5/8” (19.1 x 11.7 cm) The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Gift of the photographer. © 2012 Walker Evans Archive, The Metropolitan Museum of Art
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artifacts december 2012–march 2013
www.artfriends.com.au
www.artfriends.com.au
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
9
forms such as painting and sculpture. He was motivated to promote the artistic possibilities of photography to the American public – through such critical forums as the 291 Gallery and the groundbreaking periodicals Camera Notes and Camera Works – at a time when the medium was not yet widely considered a legitimate art
The rise of photographically illustrated magazines in the 1950s,
form. Stieglitz’s works, such as City of Ambition, 1910, have a magical
like Life, Vogue and Fortune, promoted the artistic brilliance of
quality to them, bringing a romanticism to his images of progress,
distinguished photographers including Richard Avedon and Irving
modernity and, ultimately, a new America.
Penn. Their handsome studio work can be viewed against the raw
The narrative of artistic photography in New York had begun.
photojournalistic works of William Klein, Gordon Parks and Ernie
Through the twenties and thirties artists such as Margaret Bourke-
Sisto whose ingenuity lay in their ability to bring a new reality,
White, Walker Evans, Lewis W. Hine and Edward Steichen are
humanity and intensity to documenting news and events.
vital to the story, taking brilliant photographs of the emerging,
Photography in the sixties extended the tradition of street
dynamic city skyline from startling new vantage points. It was
photography, with artists including Diane Arbus, Lee Friedlander,
also at this time that Berenice Abbott embarked on an ambitious
Peter Hujar and Garry Winogrand making pictures that were no
project to photograph the changing face of New York. Inspired by
longer about social reform, photojournalism or modernity. These
the massive building boom and the contrasts within the city, she
artists trained their eyes on the streets, becoming perceptive to social
took hundreds of photographs, capturing elegance and poverty, the
circumstance and proving how photography could be used poetically.
boroughs, buildings and people. The four photographs by Abbott in
In subsequent decades, the ‘city that never sleeps’ continued to evolve
this exhibition, including Exchange Place, New York, 1933 and Zito’s
and challenge photographers to reinvent tradition and capture the
Bakery, Bleecker Street, c1948, are a beautiful reflection of her sensitive
new. Katharina Bosse, Nan Goldin, Cindy Sherman, Michael Spano
approach to her subjects and dazzling eye for composition.
and Michael Wesely are among the photographers whose work in the
The emergence and consequent evolution of street photography is a thread that is present through the exhibition’s full chronology.
exhibition provides this more recent, absorbing perspective on the city. Picturing New York is a marvellous celebration of the city and
Michael Wesely, reveals an intimacy, affection and knowledge of
Yet, largely owing to the influx of artists from Europe in the thirties
the dynamic evolution of photography. The photographs take us
both subject and collection.
who brought with them the established tradition of public street
on a journey that nourishes our picture of New York, and it’s an
photography, it was in New York in the 1940s when it becomes
exhilarating, fascinating and mesmerising ride.
Some of the more recognisable photographers in the show include Berenice Abbott, Diane Arbus, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Walker Evans,
a dominant theme with distinct local characteristics. The advent
Lee Friedlander, Helen Levitt, Cindy Sherman, Alfred Stieglitz,
of small hand-held cameras allowed photographers to explore the
Paul Strand, Weegee, and Garry Winogrand. With over 90 artists
poetics of street life, the portability and ease of these cameras
represented in the exhibition by more than 150 works, however, the
changing the way photographs could be made and, consequently,
exhibition also includes works by photographers that no doubt will be
what could be photographed. Works by photographers such as
less known but whose equally treasured gems hang alongside many of
Henri Cartier-Bresson, Ted Croner, Louis Faurer, Helen Levitt,
the most iconic images produced in the twentieth century. For that
Lisette Model, Aaron Siskind and Paul Strand, each superbly
reason, this is a unique opportunity for visitors to AGWA to witness
capture the public energy, spirit and subtleties of the pulsating
and experience the vibrant, symbiotic and, effectively, unbroken
metropolis and its people. It was a time when people lived on the
relationship between New York and photography over a deeply
streets, and this was where artists spent their time, capturing the
transformative period for both.
grit, beauty and humour of small perfect moments.
Collecting photography and generating public appreciation for the medium as a vital means of artistic expression was critical
Top left Alfred Stieglitz (American, 1864–1946) City of Ambition, 1910 photogravure, 13 3/8 x 10 ¼” (34.0 x 26.1cm) The Museum of Modern Art, New York. © 2012 Estate of Alfred Stieglitz/ Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York. Bottom left Lisette Model (American, born Austria. 1901–1983) Times Square, 1940 gelatin silver print, 15 9/16 x 19 9/16” (39.6 x 49.7 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Gift of the photographer. © 2012 Estate of Lisette Model, Baudoin Lebon Gallery, Paris and Keitelman Gallery, Brussels
F
the Museum’s visionary founding director Alfred H. Barr, whose ambition for the collection included a department devoted to photography (a portrait of Barr by Irving Penn is in the exhibition). Following a decade of building the collection through the thirties, a Department of Photography was established in 1940. Since that time
riends are hosting a number of events during Picturing New York. Please find booking details in the Friends Event Guide.
Women in Photography Sunday 17 February
the department has undergone dynamic growth and transformation.
‘Sunset’ bottles by Grant Donaldson
Experience the high quality range of Australian art and gifts at Aspects of Kings Park gallery shop. With a showcase featuring over 200 Australian artists, finding something special has never been easier. ceramics | glass | jewellery | textiles | wood All Gallery profits directly support Kings Park. Open 7 days 9am – 5pm www.aspectsofkingspark.com.au Fraser Ave in Kings Park | ph (08) 9480 3900
A tour of Picturing New York, followed by artist talks at the
Today it holds more than 25,000 works and is one of the most
Perth Centre for Photography.
important collections of photography in the world.
Guided Tour of Picturing New York Sunday 10 March
Four of the earliest works in the exhibition are by Alfred Stieglitz,
Artists in Conversation Wednesday 13 March
a figure often referred to as the father of modern photography.
A panel discussion with photographers Juha Tolonen, Toni
Stieglitz was revolutionary in his approach in terms of both his
Wilkinson and Max Pam, chaired by Robert Cook, AGWA
aesthetics and in his attempts to raise the status of photography
Curator of Modern and Contemporary Photography and Design.
as an equally valid means of artistic expression alongside other art artifacts december 2012–march 2013
Picturing New York: Photographs from The Museum of Modern Art opens on 26 January 2013. This exhibition is organised by The Museum of Modern Art, New York and The Art Gallery of Western Australia, Perth.
Tours, Talks & Debate
for MoMA from the very beginning. This objective was led by
10
The emergence and consequent evolution of street photography is a thread that is present through the exhibition’s full chronology.
www.artfriends.com.au
www.artfriends.com.au
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
11
Women in Photography
A Luminous World
Christina Chau
P
Louise Morrison
erth audiences can expect an exceptional and diverse cohort of twentieth century and
contemporary photographers’ exhibitions in 2013. While Picturing New York at the Art Gallery of Western Australia presents key iconic works of western modern art, the Perth Centre for Photography (PCP) presents a packed program of Australian and international photomedia projects and photography awards across the year. Their 2013 program opens with two
investigation is performed with empathy
but to enter the economy of prostitution
exhibitions that bring our attention to
for these women and the suppression of self
until they can run away, are rescued or save
some often unseen and marginalised
during a time in their lives where identity
up for education. What is striking about
aspects of women’s lives. Installed in
is budding, impressionable and in need of
Trafficked is the sheer diversity of experiences
their new gallery space, PCP will present
exploration.
that Kantaria manages to capture and the
Serial number 3817131 by Rachel Papo and
In a region of the world where national
intimate details that these women are willing
Naseeb:Trafficked by Sonal Kantaria from
conflict is a daily potential, the women in
14 February – 31 March 2013.
Papo’s photographs deal with the reality
These two internationally renowned
Papo’s Serial Number 3817131 documents
to share with her, and consequently with us.
that their training is about building skills
artists both use documentary photography
the photographer’s time with a group of 18
that may very well be needed in their
to engage with the effects of displacement
year old females performing their Israeli
future. Papo captures moments of isolation,
in two different settings. Yet, both
national service. Originally from Israel and
boredom, adrenaline, and dependency on
artists document lives within their frame
having completed her own national service,
one another, to document this time as a
with sensitivity, empathy and intimacy.
historical artworks, Luminous World:
Some, for example, address its role in
records the different hues in an arid
Papo’s documentation is reminiscent,
space of emotional and physical transition
This forms an interesting alternative to the
Contemporary Art from the Wesfarmers
human perception whilst others explore its
landscape produced by changing light
protective and empathetic of this
into womanhood in a regimented and
self-reflexive slippages between fiction and
Collection is an exquisite showcase of their
psychological or metaphorical associations.
conditions whilst Wakartu Cory Surprise’s
uninterrupted period of military training.
patriarchal environment.
reality as presented by artists such as Cindy
contemporary collection and, in particular,
A row of large works in the first half
Sherman in Picturing New York.
their recent interests in the diversity of
of the exhibition celebrates colour, paint
2007 also reflect the spectral characteristics
contemporary Australian Indigenous art
and pattern. The luscious, pools of colour
of this sort of landscape. However, Laing’s
As the artist describes, the photographs in
Kantaria’s series, Naseeb:Trafficked is
W
hilst Wesfarmers is well known for their custodianship of significant
horizontal bands of paint in Mukurrutu,
this project serve as a bridge between past and
composed of a series of triptychs that each
present – a combination of my own recollections
document the experiences of a woman
tour of Picturing New York followed by a
and in art from New Zealand. To view
in the works of Gretchen Albrecht, Alex
insertion of domestic furniture into the
and the experiences of the girls who I observed.
who has been displaced in her society and
visit to PCP to view these projects and to
any selection of such acquisitions would
Spremberg and Dale Frank contrast the
scene deftly describes an ‘un-belonging’
Papo presents a documentary series that
forced into the sex trade in India. The
hear from the artists themselves promises
be a rewarding experience, however, Helen
tight gridded patterns in Sine MacPherson’s
that dramatically opposes the confident
is both of and from the other: it oscillates
women, who are from a variety of socio-
a rich and diverse introduction to the
Carroll, the Curator of the Wesfarmers
and Rosalie Gascoigne’s works. Nearby,
knowing one can sense in Surprise’s
between understanding and being removed
economic situations, have been stolen,
art of both modern and contemporary
Collection, has compiled an exhibition that
Paddy Bedford and Lydia Balbal describe
depiction of her country.
from the experiences of her subjects. Her
sold and betrayed – they have no choice
documentary photography.
is as thought provoking as it is striking.
their respective countries in soft, pastel
The Friends ‘Women in Photography’
Christina Chau is a PhD candidate
Women in Photography
at the University of Western Australia.
presented by the Friends and the
Her research interests include kinetic
Perth Centre for Photography
sculpture and installation, contemporary
Sunday 17 February, 3–6pm
art, and time-based art. She has written
Bookings essential. For details see
for many publications including Realtime
the Friends Event Guide.
Arts and unMagazine. artifacts december 2012–march 2013
Above Sonal Kantaria Arati, a triptych from the series Naseeb: Trafficked, 2012 Arati is 17 years old, separated and from Bangladesh. She was offered a job in India for RS 20,000 by an unknown lady. She was forced to cross Sunderbans by foot and ended up being raped by border police as well as her trafficker before being sold to a brothel in Pune. She has a 2-year-old child that she was forced to give up for adoption.
www.artfriends.com.au
Brad Rimmer’s Wylkatchem Summer,
hues whilst artists in Arnhemland use white
2009 and Dowerin Autumn, 2005 alongside
of the artworks share a thematic connection
ochre to achieve a shimmering brilliance in
Rammey Ramsey’s Stony Creek Warlawoon
to ideas about the phenomenon of light.
their recent works.
Country, 2010 provide twin portraits of
As implied by the exhibition’s title, all
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An exhibition that is as thought provoking as it is striking.
Above Rosemary Laing Brumby mound #5 from the series One dozen unnatural disasters in the landscape 2003 C Type photograph, 110.0 x 222.0 © Rosemary Laing, reproduced courtesy of the artist and Tolarno Galleries, Melbourne The Wesfarmers Collection, Perth
www.artfriends.com.au
Clever arrangements of Indigenous
the sort of quiet, empty landscapes in
and non-Indigenous works throughout the
which one or two features operate as
exhibition generate a rich, complex sense
key descriptors. Whether the subject is a
of place through artists’ vastly different yet
disused drive-in theatre screen or a hill
parallel experiences of this land. In Brumby
that is culturally significant, the artists’
Mound #5, 2003 and Brumby Mound #6,
processes of isolation and notation seem
2003, Rosemary Laing photographically
similarly important. artifacts december 2012–march 2013
13
Your Collection – in Focus
Luminous World: Contemporary Art from the Wesfarmers Collection is jointly presented by Wesfarmers Limited and the Art Gallery of Western Australia and runs until 11 February 2013. The superb catalogue, produced in conjunction with Fremantle Press, features essays by curator Helen Carroll, composer Richard Mills and artist Bill Henson as well as poetry by John Kinsella.
Made to Remember Clotilde Bullen, Curator of Indigenous Art, Art Gallery of Western Australia
This daring work references the traditional cultural practices of many Indigenous Australian groups …
J
enni Kemarre Martiniello is an established Arrernte artist who has until recently worked predominantly within the fibre, textiles and photo media
genres. In 2008 Kemarre was awarded a scholarship at Canberra Glassworks and through this opportunity Kemarre has been able to create a body of blown glass works which reference the traditional weaving practices of Indigenous Australian people. Medium flax eel trap (2012) has resulted from Martiniello’s recent shift to working with blown glass. The State Art Collection
The second half of the exhibition
a presence cannot be detected, but cannot
Louise Morrison is an Artist and a
holds very few glass objects created by Indigenous artists, as
contains vast, spare depictions of the
be discounted. The smoky apparition in
Lecturer at Central Institute of Technology
the medium has only in recent years begun to be embraced
cosmos. Mabel Juli’s Ngarrangkarni, Moon
Paul Uhlmann’s Pulse, 2006 seems to be
in Perth. She also writes about visual art
by the wider Indigenous artistic community. Medium flax eel
and Hill, 2009, David Stephenson’s Star
dissolving into the impenetrable blackness
on a freelance basis with a focus on local,
trap therefore becomes a pivotal and important work within
Drawings and Timothy Cook’s Kulama,
that surrounds it whilst the underlying
contemporary practice.
the Collection as a touchstone from which to base further
2010 describe the immensity of night-
grid in Dale Hickey’s Black Painting,
skies in which the dark is broken only by
1969 is similarly at risk of obliteration.
a softly glowing moon or a scattering of
The potentially scientific documentation
stars. The surface of Brian Blanchflower’s
of Brook Andrew’s Owl, 2005 and Andrew
Concretion: Oceanic 1:8, 2007 differentially
Browne’s Visitation, 2009 is disrupted
absorbs and reflects light through its
by a darkness that swallows both the
material composition: pumice, silicon,
clarity and the contexts of the specimens.
acrylic and oil. As above, so below; its dense
The unseen in these powerful works feels
darkness is difficult to fathom.
unsettlingly present.
This perceptual ambiguity anticipates another group of works; of partially visible figures and nocturnal landscapes in which
collection, and to encourage others to focus upon the medium and its possibilities. Top left Wakartu Cory Surprise Mukurrutu 2007 acrylic on canvas 120.0 x 120.0 cm The Wesfarmers Collection, image courtesy of the artist © Wakartu Cory Surprise, licenced by Viscopy 2012 Top right Jenni Kemarre Martiniello Medium flax eel trap 2012 glass. 48.0 x 30.4 cm State Art Collection, Art Gallery of Western Australia Purchased through The Leah Jane Cohen Bequest, Art Gallery of Western Australia Foundation, 2012 © Jenni Kemarre Martiniello, 2012
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These objects have strong aesthetic qualities, and have been seen in museums for many years, often within an anthropological context. Martiniello, who has a weaving background, has drawn from these forms as her inspiration. Martiniello urges the viewer to look again at an object previously known only for his usefulness as a thing of beauty, pushing boundaries and seeking unity in medium, form and subject matter. Martiniello has captured the unique qualities of the interplay of both line and light exquisitely.
A new series of monthly guided tours will
Upcoming tours include:
Made To Remember
commence in 2013. AGWA curators and
Luminous World with Helen Carroll
Sunday 7 April, 2pm
Sunday 10 February, 2pm
Your Collection
Picturing New York
Sunday 19 May, 2pm
Sunday 10 March, 2pm
See the Friends Event Guide for dates
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
which are primarily used for catching fish and eels in waterways.
both the fish and eel trap, producing a dynamic work that employs
NEW! Monthly Tours Top left Wakartu Cory Surprise guides, guest artists and arts specialists Mukurrutu 2007 will share intriguing facts and stories acrylic on canvas, 120.0 x 120.0 © about Wakartuvisiting Cory Surprise, licensedand by Viscopy 2012, exhibitions the State reproduced courtesy Mangkaja Arts; Seva Frangos Collection displays at AGWA. Art, Perth The Wesfarmers Collection, Perth
This daring work references the traditional cultural practices of many Indigenous Australian groups, who produce woven forms,
Made to Remember is a selection of Indigenous works from the State Collection, showing at AGWA until 30 June 2013.
and details. Bookings essential.
www.artfriends.com.au
www.artfriends.com.au
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
15
On your bike! Carola Akindele-Obe
T
ranscendent lovers,
Australian artists. The crowds of locals
SxS Cottesloe event, consists of over a
homing beacons and subversive
and tourists who promenade or run along
dozen works. Tony Jones’ Lighthouse,
road signs are populating the
Marine Parade can enjoy the permanent
exhibited at SxS 2012, was purchased by the
beautiful beach suburb of Cottesloe. Since
exhibition of sculptures there, but many
owner of the newly renovated Eric Street
the advent of the now famous Sculpture by
more exhibits can be discovered in the
Shopping Centre and subsequently gifted to
the Sea (SxS) in 2004, the local government
streets, parks and other local vistas.
the Town of Cottesloe.
has been building an enviable public art collection of works by international and
The collection, the majority of which has been purchased through the annual
Tony Jones expounds the virtues and the shortfalls of such a collecting strategy, It goes without saying that support of the local government in supporting this (SxS) event through buying a work is very important. Over time it establishes an important collection for the town and makes a cultural statement. I would prefer the town collected the works of Western Australian artists exclusively. The story of Western Australian sculpture is a good one and aside from the public art program the works of individual artists remain largely unrecognised and
Suitable for most age groups the route will require only a moderate level of fitness. Get the whole family involved!
undervalued by our larger institutions. Showcasing their work through a local
Stimulate your brain cells as well as your heart rate with Friends
government collection is one important way
on Sunday 14 April! At a leisurely pace, by bicycle or on foot, it
for this to happen.
will take between one and two hours to follow the 5km long trail
Local car drivers have probably become
around the highlights of Cottesloe’s sculptures.
so accustomed to the artistic punctuation
Although the trail is self-guided and you can go at your
marks around ‘Cott’ that the only way to
own pace, on Sunday 14 April you can take advantage of guides
appreciate them fully is to slow down and
and special guests, stationed at particular sculptures, who
use a gentler form of transport. Realising
will provide entertaining anecdotes about the artworks and
the joys of travelling under pedal power,
Cottesloe landmarks.
Friends have devised the perfect way to follow the art via a mapped trail.
Suitable for most age groups the route will require only a moderate level of fitness. Get the whole family involved! The tour will finish at the Cottesloe Civic Centre with a thirst quenching afternoon tea and a chance to discuss your favourite pieces as you enjoy the spectacular view.
Left Tony Jones Lighthouse 2012 painted steel collage of marine references, colours and artifacts, 10m high Town of Cottesloe Sculpture Collection Photo: Carola Akindele-Obe Top right Ayad Alqaragholli Farewell Kiss 2011 silicone bronze, 600 x 80 x 180 cm Town of Cottesloe Sculpture Collection
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artifacts december 2012–march 2013
www.artfriends.com.au
Health and safety will be each participant’s responsibility, or their guardian’s; equally the maintenance of each cycle – mono, bi, tandem or other! Helmets are compulsory, of course, and adherence to WA traffic laws. Find booking details in the Friends Event Guide, included in this edition of Artifacts.
www.artfriends.com.au
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
17
World Cinema captivates Perth Carola Akindele-Obe tracked down jet-setting Madeline Bates, Program Manager of the Lotterywest Festival Films, to find out what we can look forward to this summer at the Somerville and Joondalup Pines outdoor cinemas.
International Film Festival. A production of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar in a maximumsecurity prison in Rome with real-life Mafiosi being given an opportunity to express themselves without limits through the conduit of Shakespeare. Powerful stuff. BLANCANIEVES – A gorgeous, funny and cheekily grotesque love letter to European silent cinema and a reinterpretation of the Snow White story that sees the eponymous heroine re-imagined as a female bullfighter in 1920s Seville. TABU – Another beautiful black and white film that recalls earlier forms We also support emerging WA talent so
part ironic critique of colonialism and
I’m pleased that we’ll have the WA premiere
film history, and soundtracks, about his
rather magical.
of a short film directed by Zak Hilditch,
work on film composition.
CAO: Madeline, you moved to WA just
sound glamorous, it’s actually hard work.
CAO: Do you consciously try to strike a
over a year ago now – what are you enjoying
On an average day at Cannes I watch about
balance of genres as well as established and
about it and how has the experience of your
four films in-between meetings. It is a
emerging directors and actors across the
CAO: Can we expect to see some
first program influenced planning for the
major film market as well as a red-carpet
program? What are your priorities?
Australian and local WA content?
forthcoming season?
showcase for world cinema; major deals are brokered in a volatile industry. So, you
MB: Absolutely, balance is really
MB: Yes. I’m very pleased that we have the
MB: Well, I’ve just been looking out from
can imagine, there’s a lot of pressure and
important, which means that many great
Australian Premiere of SATELLITE BOY,
the Leeuwin Ridge in Augusta over native
quick decision-making, but that’s also what
films don’t make the final cut. I think
set near Wyndham. It’s a beautiful story
MB: We’ll have some great cross art-form
26 November 2012. For details visit
bushland and coastline and to say it’s
makes it exciting and fun.
it’s important to combine established,
about childhood and ingenuity and casts
collaborations this year in the Festival. Perth
www.perthfestival.com.au
respected and greater-known talent with the
two young WA boys as lead characters as
Writers Festival and Lotterywest Festival
CAO: Where are the most exciting films
work of emerging filmmakers and actors
well as the legendary David Gulpilil as one
Films are creating a focus on the art of great
is home to a lot of creative people and
coming from at the moment and why do
yet to be known outside the industry and
of the boy’s grandfather. On opening night,
TV – OUT OF THE BOX; a series of films
coming from Europe, in the midst of a deep
you think so?
the independent scene. That’s our job as
we’ll be hosting various guests from the
about artists will show at PICA; and we’ll be
a festival to bridge that gap. I attempt to
film; so that would be a great night to come.
hosting an onstage interview with a special
Perth has a great youthful energy and
depression, I appreciate the relatively stable position of the arts community here.
represent the best examples of the entire
another film this year by the talented
spectrum of style, subject, geography and
getting to know our audiences better and
director Asghar Farhadi, ABOUT ELLY,
genre in the program. I also think it’s
fortunately they responded to it really well.
which is having its first theatrical release
our job as an international arts festival to
Perth is a global city with a serious and
in Australia in 2013 and it’s a master class
support the brave films – the filmmakers
sophisticated demographic who equally
in suspense and intelligent drama. For
and actors who are really brilliant and stick
appreciate being challenged as well as the
me, Farhadi is a hugely important director
their neck out for what they do.
lighter side of life. I hope that I’ve captured
as his work demystifies Iran to the West
that in the 2012-13 season.
and I think, indirectly, that is of great
CAO: Which top 3 films do you recommend
political importance.
to the Friends of the Art Gallery?
CAO: It sounds like a very glamorous life
very rich history and often manages to be
MB: A very hard question to answer, as our
What is it really like, as you travel to
passionate, artful, intriguing and brilliant.
appreciation of cinema is also dependent on
exotic locations, meeting colourful and
We’re representing some excellent and
our immediate circumstance; our mood,
famous people?
diverse Spanish language films this year
what’s happened that particular day and
from Spain, Mexico and Chile.
what else we’ve been watching recently.
MB: Well, sometimes I steal conversations
The French industry is famously prolific. French society generally has such a respectful
favourite chance encounter this year was
and esteemed attitude towards the arts and
and diverse films on offer – three I’d
sitting next to Ken Loach and his wife in a
how important they are to a healthy society;
recommend for art lovers in particular are:
French bakery and having a chat about…
it’s an attitude that I admire greatly and
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
which can produce unparalleled work.
Lotterywest Festival Films run from
Above The Somerville outdoor cinema at UWA Photo: Michael Chestnutt Opposite Madeline Bates Photo: Scott Weir
La Traviata | Don giovanni | La Bohème His Majesty’s Theatre
OPERA SUBSCRIPTIONS ON SALE NOW 3 OPERAS fROM $99 | BOOkINgS CALL 1300 795 012 Credit card fees apply.
However, amongst all the brilliant
CAESAR MUST DIE – The
www.waopera.asn.au
Golden Bear winner at the 2012 Berlin www.artfriends.com.au
www.thewritebusiness.com.au
can share with us?
2013 Year Of The
It’s like comparing people!
with some very talented people. My
But, in all seriousness, while it may
Read the uncut version of this interview at
WEST AUSTRALIAN OPERA PRESENTS
Also – Spanish language cinema has a
to be a Film Festival Program Manager.
I hope everyone enjoys the program!
feature SAFETY NOT GUARANTEED). CAO: Are there any other highlights you
MB: Asia, in particular, Iran – we have
My first program was a case of
TRANSMISSION (playing in front of the
AD IMPACT WAO 15131
magnificent is a bit of an understatement …
18
guest who has been a major contributor to
of filmmaking. Tabu is part love-story,
www.artfriends.com.au
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
19
A New York Point of View
New York’s art institutions and collections are second to none, impossible to do justice to in these pages. The Upper East side is a must, if predictable place, for art lovers to start … Continue up the western side of Central Park take a break
Louise Jones
and relax on the grass in the lush Sheeps Meadow or the adjacent Strawberry Fields (71st–74th Streets), the tribute to John Lennon
I look out the window and I see the lights and the skyline and the people on the street rushing around looking for action, love and the world’s greatest chocolate chip cookie and my heart does a little dance. – Nora Ephron Heartburn
opposite his former home at the Dakota Building. A little further up Central Park West is the New York Historical Society, Museum and Library, often overlooked by visitors. It houses the most incredible collections of manuscripts and artefacts referencing key moments in American history and offers a rich public program of exhibitions, lectures, walks and education. (www.nyhistory.org). The booming arts scene downtown is now centred in Chelsea,
T
with over 200 independent galleries. There are a series of walks he word ‘iconic’ is
to do justice to in these pages. The Upper
advocacy of great American artists founded
taking place every summer from 5 to 8pm styled The Chelsea Art
totally over used these days, yet
East side is a must, if predictable place, for
upon the patronage of sculptor and
Walk, involving 125 galleries, artist and curator talks, screenings
remains entirely appropriate for
art lovers to start; with the Guggenheim
collector Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney and
and performances. (www.artwalkchelsea.com). Or you could join
New York City, in every sense; – its skyline,
(1071 Fifth Ave), the incomparable ‘Met’
originally housed downtown in Greenwich
walking tours with Art Walk New York (www.artwalknewyork.
its architecture, its sidewalks, the smoke
– The Metropolitan Museum of Art (1000
Village. The Whitney houses an extensive
com), or public art tours with the Municipal Art Society of New
coming out of its manholes and its yellow
Fifth Ave), and The Frick Collection on
archive and library and is well known for
York offering fantastic historical tours of some of New York’s train
taxi-cabs.
Central Park (East 70th Street). Weather
its performance arts program supporting
stations and public art (mas.org ⁄tours) and New York City Cultural
and season permitting make sure you go
emerging musicians and honouring established
Walking Tours, private tours that focus on the art and architecture
Manhattan from the 86th floor of the Empire
upstairs at the Met to the Iris and B Gerard
American artists.
downtown. (www.nycwalk.com).
State Building (Fifth Ave – W 34th St) or
Cantor Roof Garden (closed November to
from the ‘Top of the Rock’ – the Rockefeller
April) where apart from the magnificent
with MoMA – (at 11 West 53rd St) and
disused ‘railroad spur’ that has been transformed and ‘recycled’ into
Centre (W 48th–51st Sts), it is hard to believe
views of Central Park there are often large-
those with weary feet should step into
an urban green park The High Line spanning 1.6km from Gansevoort
that a city so crammed full of buildings,
scale installations with which visitors are
its courtyard, the Rockefeller Sculpture
Street in the Meatpacking District through Chelsea and up to 30th St.
traffic and people could be so attractive.
encouraged to physically interact.
Garden, which always surprises and provokes
The native meadow plants and grasses reflect the landscape that once
and provides a place to sit and pause.
thrived in the disused tracks. The High Line walk is a welcome respite
Whether you are looking down on
From street level it is at once overwhelming,
Take a detour along the lower west side of Manhattan to the
but the bird’s eye perspective of New York
Pittsburgh coke and steel industrialist who
City is a must early in your trip; looking
bequeathed his New York home, many works
Public Library (Fifth Ave W 42nd St) with
down on the dense, sardine packed buildings
of art and a $15million endowment as a
its imposing marble lions, nicknamed
Trivial New York
serves to emphasise the grid of avenues and
public gallery for the purpose of encouraging
Patience and Fortitude by New York’s Mayor
In 1626 Dutch Traders bought the island of Manhattan for
streets and your eyes travel up and down and
and developing the study of fine arts, The
Fiorello La Guardia hoping to inspire his
60 guilders, close to US$1000 by today’s value. NYC was
crisscross, dissecting the city into its more
Frick Collection’s permanent works are a
citizens during the Depression. Make sure
previously known as New Amsterdam.
accessible boroughs and villages.
treasure trove of masterpieces. Commencing
you step into the imposing Rose Reading
Do not miss the landmark New York
and surprise in hip downtown.
New York City is in New York State, the 11th State of the
in March through to June 2013 the Frick
Room, instantly recognisable from many
perspective (and a potted history of the
will host The Impressionist Line from Degas
movies and gaze at its incredible windows,
City, its five boroughs and landmark
to Toulouse–Lautrec: Drawings and Prints
chandeliers and open shelves of books.
buildings) by taking a river cruise starting
from the Clark, the Francine Clark Institute
on the west side in the Hudson River
and in October 2013 the exhibition Vermeer,
and up the Upper West side stop in at the
travelling down to the the tip of Manhattan
Rembrandt and Hals, Masterpieces from the
Lincoln Center for Performing Arts (W 60th
Useful NYC art Links
at Battery Park (where tour commentaries
Mauritshuis, The Royal Picture Gallery of
St), established with the philanthropy of the
www.metmuseum.org
focus on Ground Zero – the World Trade
The Hague which will include Johannes
Rockefellers. This incredible collection of
www.moma.org
Centre Memorial site) over to ‘Lady’
Vermeer’s exquisite and celebrated Girl with
buildings over 6.6 acres and 29 performance
www.whitney.org
Liberty and up the east side of Manhattan
a Pearl Earring (c 1665).
facilities houses The Julliard School, The
www.frick.org
You can also gain this much needed
past Brooklyn with views of the United Nations and Chrysler Buildings. New York’s art institutions and collections are second to none, impossible 20
Founded by Henry Clay Frick, a
Friends will want to visit and connect
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
Don’t leave the Upper East Side
Past the southern tip of Central Park
United States, admitted to the Union in 1788. NYC sometimes smells of maple syrup, which is apparently due to the wind blowing the scent of roasted fenugreek from a factory in New Jersey.
School of American Ballet, The Metropolitan
www.timeout.com ⁄newyork
without stopping at the Whitney Museum
Opera House, and homes to the New York
www.centralpark.com
of American Art (Madison Avenue, East
City Ballet, The New York Philharmonic and
www.nyhistory.org
75th–74th Sts) a museum dedicated to the
Lincoln Center Theater and Recital Halls.
www.nypl.org ⁄events ⁄tours
www.artfriends.com.au
www.artfriends.com.au
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
21
What’s on at the Gallery For more information about the Gallery’s exhibitions and events visit: www.artgallery.wa.gov.au Picturing New York: Photographs from The Museum of Modern Art 26 January – 12 May 2013 Picturing New York is a celebration of photography and New York City in all its 1
vitality, ambition and beauty. With over 150
2
Friendship Photos: Christina Backus, Friends Volunteer
photographs by 90 artists, drawn exclusively from The Museum of Modern Art’s extraordinary photography collection, the exhibition traces the dynamic rise of modern photography from 1888 to 2005 through a multitude of visions of the ever-changing city and its famously diverse population.
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It has a been a busy season of Friends events with
This is a rare opportunity to see iconic
fascinating ASA and ADFAS lectures, visits to Gomboc
photographs by the world’s most celebrated
Sculpture Park, Gallery East and Perth Galleries, as well
photographers. Artists include Berenice
as intriguing tours and talks at AGWA, including the
Abbott, Diane Arbus, Henri Cartier-
exhibition, ticketing and associated events
Indigenous artists’ works, however, remain
Picasso to Warhol Film Festival, Jeff Wall Photographs and a
Bresson, Walker Evans, Nan Goldin, Helen
please visit: momaseries.com.au
directly linked through style, materials or
Behind the Scenes tour of the Conservation Laboratory and
Levitt, Cindy Sherman, Alfred Stieglitz, Paul
Print Room.
Strand, Weegee, and Garry Winogrand.
Julie Eller, Susie Bogle and Peggy Ninkov 2 Claire Bradley and Shane Hodge 3 Nikki Brayshay and Gerard Chipper 4 Jane Agnew and Ann Ryan 5 Elizabeth and Lloyd Horn 6 Robyn and Ron Pease 7 Walter Ong and Graeme Marshall 8 Heather Dun and Helen Andrews 9 Sue Sauer and Helen Reidy 10 Rod Campbell and Oye Akindele Obe
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medium to traditional practices. Between this space in Made to Remember is a zone
from the Wesfarmers Collection
in Indigenous art practice where objects
The Museum of Modern Art, New York
Until 11 February 2013
can be seen as innovative, unusual and
and The Art Gallery of Western
Luminous World presents a diverse selection
fundamentally unique.
Australia, Perth.
of contemporary paintings, photography
practices, and examines the complexity of
Picturing New York Opening Party
acquired by the Wesfarmers Collection
relationships between utilitarian objects of
Friday 25 January 2013 from 5.30pm
over thirty years.
work (such as baskets), objects made purely
Helen Carroll, the curator of both the
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artifacts december 2012–march 2013
9
10 www.artfriends.com.au
for pleasure and aesthetic satisfaction, and
Park-themed opening party! Enjoy all
exhibition and the Wesfarmers Collection,
objects designed to aid in worship or to
the opening festivities and be the first to
has focused on how contemporary artists
fulfill ritual obligation.
see this world class exhibition from The
variously use the phenomenon of light in
Museum of Modern Art.
their work. Rather than a chronological
Year 12 Perspectives 2012
or stylistically ordered presentation, the
Opens 2 March 2013
AGWA Nights
exhibition follows an intuitive flow of ideas
Year 12 Perspectives is your yearly taste of
Launches Friday 1 February from 5.30pm
and imagery, moving through night to day.
art by some of the best, brightest and most
We’re back! This AGWA Nights’ season will
The selected 55 artists explore light from the
talented graduating high school artists in
make you feel like you’ve just stepped into
perspective of the optical experience, the
the State. An annual barometer of what our
NYC’s Central Park. Come see Picturing
connection between the stars and the cycles
youth are thinking and feeling, it is also a
New York with all the usual AGWA Nights
of life on earth, and from diverse cultural,
rich celebration of the role the arts play in
trimmings including exhibition tours by
mythic and spiritual points of departure.
the development of individual identities.
our Volunteer Gallery Guides, a new lineup
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Made to Remember scrutinises these
and sculpture, some 60 works in all,
Picturing New York kicks off with a Central
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new technologies. A substantial number of
Luminous World – Contemporary Art
This exhibition is organised by 1
For more information on the
Come to see the exhibition to be provoked,
of DJs and AGWA Nights’ Talks, topical
Collection in Focus:
challenged, delighted and entertained, but
talks inspired by this incredible exhibition
Made to Remember
most of all, to see a glimpse of the world
and co-ordinated with the Central Institute
24 November 2012 – 30 June 2013
through the eyes of our young people.
of Technology. And don’t forget our
Many of the Indigenous artists whose work
Manhattan Lounge chill-out space and the
is in the State Art Collection deal with
Art Gallery Café deli delights.
found objects, and introduced and relatively
www.artfriends.com.au
Above Charlie Hutton, Veracity oil on canvas. 76 x 102 cm. Scotch College
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
23
WA, Australia & the World
A selection of exhibitions, biennales, art fairs & events WESTERN AUSTRALIA BUNBURY REGIONAL ART GALLERIES 64 Wittenoom Street, Bunbury 6230 W: brag.org.au T: 08 9721 8226 Open: 10am-4pm every day, entry free SOUTH WEST PRINTMAKERS 16 November – 13 January GALLERY CENTRAL 12 Aberdeen St, Perth 6000 W: gallerycentral.com.au T: 08 94271318 Open: Mon-Fri 10am – 4.45pm VISUAL ARTS AND JEWELLERY DESIGN GRADUATION EXHIBITION 6 – 15 December SHINE – CENTRAL’S CREATIVE INDUSTRIES RECENT GRADUATE SHOW 11 February – 2 March YOUNG ARTHUR RUSSELL – THE EVERLASTING LEGACY 11 – 28 March FREMANTLE ARTS CENTRE 1 Finnerty St, Fremantle 6160 W: fac.org.au T: 08 9432 9555 Open 10am – 5pm, 7 days We don’t need a map: A Martu experience of the Western Desert 17 November-20 January
Inside Running: The Sport of Art 3 February – 7 April GALERIE DÜSSELDORF 9 Glyde Street, Mosman Park 6012 W: galeriedusseldorf.com.au Open: Wed – Fri 11am – 5pm, Sun 2 – 5pm Jánis Nédela: Disparate Bed Fellows 18 November – 16 December For more than 30 years, Jánis Nedéla’s studio practice has concerned itself with codes and the possibilities of art as an infinite flow of seamless text. In this exhibition he has embedded meanings and stories into what, at first glance, are disparate objects, which include books, the printed page, pencils and crayons. Xmas art miX – collectable 2D & 3D artworks 18 November – 16 December
Top left Katherine Bennison, Untitled 2012, ceramic Left Marra (Catch it). Photo: Gabrielle Sullivan Opposite left Howard Taylor, Discovery 2000, oil on marine ply structure, 200 x 190 x 36 cm. Galerie Düsseldorf/ Howard H Taylor Estate Opposite right Rachel Papo, Inbar talking to family during a break from basic training (detail), Shaare Avraham, Israel, 2004
Howard Taylor (1918-2001): Discovery, Development and Ideas 1946 – 2001 10 March – 21 April A comprehensive exhibition of constructions, paintings, drawings and maquettes, including previously unseen early sketches, notations and schematic diagrams. GALLERY EAST 94 Stirling Highway, North Fremantle 6159 W: galleryeast.com.au T: 08 9336 6231 Open: Tue – Sat 11am – 5pm, Sun 2 – 5pm CHRISTMAS SHOW AND CLOSING SALE 30 November – 16 December GOMBOC GALLERY SCULPTURE PARK James Road, Middle Swan Open: Wed-Sun, 10am-5pm T: 08 9274 3996 W: gomboc-gallery.com.au THIRTIETH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION EXHIBITION 2 – 24 December
HEATHCOTE MUSEUM & GALLERY 58-60 Duncraig Road, Applecross W: melvillecity.com.au/facilities/museums/ heathcote T: 08 9364 5666 Open: Tue – Fri 10am – 3pm; Sat – Sun 12 – 4pm; Closed Mon & public hols Eva Fernandez: Tilt 2012 10 November – 19 December Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley T: 08 6488 3707 W: lwgallery.uwa.edu.au Open: Tue – Fri 11am – 5pm, Sun 12 – 5pm Closed Public Holidays, Free Admission JIMMY PIKE’S Artlines – You Call It Desert, We Used To Live There 29 June – 15 December LUMINOUSFLUX: in collaboration with Perth International Arts Festival 8 February – 20 April
THROUGH THE KUNAI GRASS: Portraits of the New Guinea Highlands 1951-53, exhibited by the Berndt Museum of Anthropology 18 February – 8 June Perth Centre for Photography 100 Aberdeen Street, Northbridge, WA 6003 W: pcp.org.au T: 08 6460 9892 Open: Thu/Fri 12pm – 5pm, Sat/Sun 12pm – 4pm 20TH ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION 15 November – 16 December RACHEL PAPOS, Serial No. 38171 SONAL KANTARIA, Naseeb:Trafficked 15 February – 31 March INGVAR KENNE/ASHLEY PORTER 4 April – 5 May CLIP Award 9 May – 9 June PERTH GALLERIES 92 Stirling Highway, North Fremantle 6159 W: perthgalleries.com.au T: 08 9433 4414 Open Tue – Fri 10am – 5pm, Sat 11am – 5pm, Sun 2 – 5pm Swan Song Show 16 November – 7 December
MID WEST Art Prize 2013
Alcoa Australia’s Aluminium, Corporate Award (open to all Western Australian Artists)
$15000 (Acquisitive)
Entry Forms Now Available
Halls Head Community Bank Branch Bendigo Bank, Regional Award (open to all Peel Regional Artists)
$5000 (Acquisitive)
Exhibition Dates Friday 15 March – Sunday 7 April 2013 Entry Submissions by Monday 18 February 2013 by 4pm Artwork delivered on Monday 11 March 2013 between 10am-4pm More information and entry forms can be obtained by calling 9550 3915, emailing mag@manpac.com.au or www.manpac.com.au
Hunsa Smallgoods, Highly Commended Corporate Award
$1000 Terrace Art Framers, Highly Commended Regional Award
$1000 Halls Head Community Bank Branch Bendigo Bank, People’s Choice Award
Open to artists throughout Western Australia, the third annual Mid West Art Prize Exhibition is scheduled to open at the Geraldton Regional Art Gallery on Saturday 2 March 2013. The City of Greater Geraldton, along with our greatly appreciated sponsors, have once again put their support behind what the Geraldton Regional Art Gallery, City of Greater Geraldton and Art Gallery of Western Australia recognize this exhibition to be; a significant cultural
event, not only for the Mid West but all of Western Australia. $45 000 in non-acquisitive awards will again be made available. Exhibition conditions and entry forms are now available from the Art Gallery website located at; http://artgallery.cgg.wa.gov.au Or contact the Gallery on 9964 7170. Entries close 4pm Wednesday 16th January 2013
The Mid West Art Prize as launched in March 2011 is rapidly becoming the flagship exhibition in the schedule of events staged at the Geraldton Regional Art Gallery. The staff and management of the Gallery continue to look forward to the various challenges that lie ahead as we plan to sustain, and wherever possible, improve upon the momentum achieved in 2011 and 2012.
$1000
Grant Woodhams MLA
24
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
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midwest2012-v6.indd 1
www.artfriends.com.au
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artifacts december 2012–march 2013
25
INTERSTATE Confounding – Contemporary Photography 5 October 2012 – 24 March 2013 National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) Photography has the uncanny ability to make the strange, uncomfortable and awkward seem plausible, to suggest a confounding alternative reality. The photographers in this exhibition employ a variety of techniques to create disturbing portraits and construct a fantastic reality based on art, science and imagination. Drawn from the NGV Collection, the exhibition includes photographs by Roger Ballen, Pat Brassington, Rosemary Laing, Patricia Piccinini and Wang Qingsong. [ngv.vic.gov.au] The 7th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art (APT7) 8 December 2012 — 14 April 2013 Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)/Queensland Art Gallery (QAG) This is the only recurring exhibition to present the contemporary art of Asia, the Pacific and Australia. APT7 will feature new and recent work by 75 artists and artist groups from 27 countries across the region, including painting, installation, sculpture and photography by Indigenous Australian artists; new works by artists from Papua New Guinea, Indonesia and Vietnam; and a special focus on West Asia, with works and major commissions by artists from Turkey through the Middle East to Iran and Central Asia. [qagoma.qld.gov.au] [asiapacifictriennial.com]
Above Matt Doust, If I cannot see, can you see me? 2012, oil on canvas 183 x 153 cm Top right Kyle Hughes-Odgers, A Future Life 2013, acrylic on canvas, 90 x 73cm
R OF TH E E MO ST PO PU LA WH AT WA S TH 40 S? IN TH E 193 0S & ES NC DA ING SW
!! L IN DY HASOTHPE JIT TE RB UG ) AN D
(AL SO KN OW N IN AL L TH E FU N! YO U CA N JO IN H RA NG ES TH RO UG SW ING DA NC ING SIC ; AN YW HE RE MU OF OS MP TE AL L D EX PL OS IVE TO FROM FAS T AN DA NC E AC EF UL . IT’ S A SL OW AN D GR ORTA NT LY AN D MO ST IMP FO R AL L AG ES ON YS WA AL IS TH E EM PH AS IS N AB OU T SW ING FO R INF OR MATIO G EV EN TS RT H, UP CO MIN DA NC ING IN PE S VIS IT: SE AS CL D FIN AN D WH ER E TO
FU N!
p e rt h sw in g.c o m
Perth Swing Dance Society (PSDS) is a non-profit organisation that actively promotes swing dancing, its music and culture in Perth, Western Australia
26
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
SPECTRUM PROJECT SPACE Edith Cowan University Building 3.191, 2 Bradford Street, Mount Lawley 6051 T: 08 9370 6906 Open Tue – Fri 10am – 6pm, Saturday 12 noon – 5pm FAST SLOW COMPLEX: Perdita Phillips 4 February – 3 March MELTING MOMENTS, curated by Nick Mahony 7 – 23 March DRAWN FROM SOUND, curated by Cat Hope 28 March – 13 April TURNER GALLERIES 470 William St, Northbridge 6003 W: turnergalleries.com.au T: 08 9227 1077 E PO PU LA R OF TH MO ST S TH–E Sat Open: Tue 11am – 5pm WH AT WA 40 S? IN TH E 193 0S & ES NC DA ING SW KYLE HUGHES-ODGERS 8 February – 9 March TE RB UG ) AN D TH E JITANGELS AS ART 10 RESIDENCIES SO KN OW NOF (ALYEARS FU N! E TH L IN AL YO U CA N JO IN (Group exhibition) H RA NG ES TH RO UG INGApril 15SWMarch – 13 ING DA NC SIC ; AN YW HE RE MU OF OS MP TE AL L ANDREW NICHOLLS D EX PL OS IVE TO FROM FAS T AN NC E EF UL . IT’ S A DA 15SLMarch 13ACApril OW AN D–GR ORTA NT LY
L IN DY H O P !!
AN D MO ST IMP FO R AL L AG ES
YS ON FU N! Venn Gallery PH AS IS IS ALWA TH E EM SW ING TWA OU 16 Queen Street, Perth 6000 TS AB N EN FO R INF OR MATIO H, UP CO MIN G EV W:DAvenn.net NC ING IN PE RT AS SE S VIS IT: ER E TO FIN D CL WH D AN T: 08 9321 8366 Open: Tue – Sat 10am – 5pm, Fri 10am – 7pm MATT DOUST 19 October – 23 November RHYS LEE: CRACKED POTS 8 February – 22 March DAVID COLLINS Perth Swing Dance Society 8 February – 22 March
Toulouse-Lautrec Paris & The Moulin Rouge 14 December 2012 – 2 April 2013 National Gallery of Australia (NGA) The Australian public have never before had the opportunity to see a major retrospective exhibition devoted to the art of French 19th century artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec in painting, drawing, posters and prints. Now is your chance. [nga.gov.au/] We used to talk about love Balnaves contemporary: photomedia 31 January – 21 April 2013 Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW) For the first time since 1988, the Belgiorno-Nettis galleries at AGNSW will be architecturally reconsidered to take the viewer on a spatial and emotional journey through love’s language, from beginning to end. The exhibition includes photography, photomedia, video, collage, sculpture and installation. [artgallery.nsw.gov.au]
Francis Bacon – five decades 17 November – 24 February 2013 Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW) Francis Bacon is a towering figure of 20th-century art. His paintings are gutsy, controversial and unforgettable. With painful beauty Bacon lays bare the struggles of the human condition. This is the first major exhibition in Australia of rare works by the master of post-war British art. [artgallery.nsw.gov.au] INTERNATIONAL Lichtenstein: A Retrospective 21 February – 27 May 2013 Tate Modern, London, UK This is the first full-scale retrospective of this artist in over twenty years. Co-organised by The Art Institute of Chicago and Tate Modern, it brings together 125 of his most definitive paintings and sculptures and will reassess his enduring legacy. [tate.org.uk] Sharjah Biennial 11 13 March – 13 May 2013 Sharjah, United Arab Emirates The courtyard in Islamic architecture — where elements of both public and private life intertwine, where the objective political world and the introspective subjective space intersect and cross over — have inspired curator Yuko Hasegawa’s concept for the Biennial. A range of international architects will create temporary public structures in locations across the city to house the many large-scale commissions. [sharjahart.org] Faking It Manipulated Photography Before Photoshop 11 October – 27 January 2013 The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA The urge to modify camera images is as old as photography itself. Nearly every type of manipulation we now associate with digital photography was also part of the medium’s pre-digital repertoire: smoothing away wrinkles, slimming waistlines, adding people to a scene (or removing them)—even fabricating events that never took place. This exhibition traces the history of manipulated photography from the 1840s through the early 1990s. [metmuseum.org]
fremantle arts centre
new courses
for adults, teens and kids
enrol from 17 dec | fac.org.au or 94329555
p e rt h sw in g.c o m
(PSDS) is a non-profit organisation that actively promotes swing dancing, its music and culture in Perth, Western Australia
www.artfriends.com.au
www.artfriends.com.au
artifacts december 2012–march 2013
27
GERMANY
Image: Lesley Leslie-Spinks
The 1928 show that made musicals like Cabaret and Chicago possible: Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill’s Threepenny Opera is the granddaddy of all the singing, stinging portraits of fat societies on their eves of destruction. THE NEW YORK TIMES
AUSTRALIAN EXCLUSIVE/PREMIERE
Berliner Ensemble
THE THREEPENNY OPERA By Bertolt Brecht, Music by Kurt Weill Direction, Set Design and Lighting by Robert Wilson Co-directed by Ann-Christin Rommen Costumes Designed by Jacques Reynaud
International Excellence Partner
HIS MAJESTY’S THEATRE WHEN Fri 8–Mon 11 Feb TICKETS $25–$154.50
AUSTRALIAN EXCLUSIVE/PREMIERE
Ballet National de Marseille
FRANCE
THE TRUTH 25 TIMES A SECOND By Frédéric Flamand (Belgium) and Ai Weiwei (China)
This ballet of flesh and metal applies Flamand’s winning recipe … captivating, then, right until the hero’s final flight … a suspended moment, a trance, to the very last second.
HEATH LEDGER THEATRE, STATE THEATRE CENTRE OF WA WHEN Fri 8–Mon 11 Feb TICKETS $25–$76.50
LA MARSEILLAISE
Image: Pino Pipitone
Supported by
BOOK 08 6488 5555 perthfestival.com.au