Explore the complex and fascinating subject of the self-portrait during the exhibition ‘Looking Out, Looking In’ at the Queensland Art Gallery until 6 August 2023, or follow our blog series that delves into why some artists look inwards to reflect on themselves in self-effacing ways, while others seek to project a more flamboyant image. DELVE…
Continue reading » “The profile: Exploring the self-portrait”
The conservator’s public image is most likely of someone cleaning an old painting with a cotton wool swab in a studio with classical music playing. However, art conservation — particularly contemporary art conservation — calls for an innovative and creative approach to the unique challenges presented by contemporary art display. Preparing fragile and complex art…
Continue reading » “Getting ready for bed: Contemporary art conservation”
The exhibition ‘Looking Out, Looking In: Exploring the Self-Portrait’ considers the complex and fascinating genre of the self-portrait — a distinct form of portraiture in which subject and artist are one, here we examine the enduring human interest in the self-image, revealing artistic tendencies towards both introspection and flamboyance. ‘Looking Out, Looking In’ is devised…
Continue reading » “Looking Out, Looking In: Exploring the Self-Portrait”
This cliff in Chalk Fall 2018 (illustrated) seems solid, like the massive wall of a fortress, however on closer inspection, we see the rough waves churning beneath, and realise the cliff-face is giving way, falling into the ocean. Tacita Dean’s monumental chalkboard drawing evokes the famous White Cliffs of Dover which are eroding evermore swiftly…
Continue reading » “Subject of chalkboard drawing also composed of chalk”
We’re struck by the monumental scale and startling realism of Ron Mueck’s In bed 2005 (illustrated), then — almost voyeuristically — we are compelled to move closer to inspect the detailed texture of the figure’s hair, her translucent skin, and almost pulsing veins. Stepping back, her apprehensive facial expression and seemingly vulnerable state of being…
Continue reading » “Apprehensive & vulnerable: ‘In Bed’ by Ron Mueck”
Nearly three metres long and two across — and gilded entirely in gold leaf — the imposing frame for George Romney’s 1771 painting, Mrs Yates as the Tragic Muse, Melpomene (illustrated) is a time capsule of framing fashions, repairs and interventions. QAGOMA is presently the only gallery in Australia with a framing studio where experts both restore and make…
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art stands and recognise the creative contribution First Australians make to the art and culture of this country.