Interpreting+Art+visits+Shaun+Gladwell+and+Annie+Franklin+Exhibitions

A beautiful autumn morning greeted the 2nd ARTiculations group visit, recently in May.

Narek Galleries, set in Tanja’s coastal bush is the show piece of director Karen O’Clery. On view in the spartan church interior were the jewel-like creations of local artist Annie Franklin. The intimate world of Annie’s coastal home was displayed in media ranging from gouache panels to delicate bowls with painted interiors. An added treat for the group was the discussion we had with Annie regarding her favourite birds, her experiences living & teaching on Melville Island and collecting antique frames used in her works. Delight and discovery were some of the rewards participants gained examining Annie’s “Small Kingdoms” exhibition but too soon we were off to Bega to see something entirely different.

The Regional Gallery responded to the Anzac centenary year with the Australian War Memorial’s official war artist Shaun Gladwell and his “Portraits from Afghanistan”. Shaun’s work has been seen at the Regional last year when he won the 2014 Shirley Hannon Portrait Award with another war themed work, Portrait of Meyne Wyatt/Black Digger. This year’s work was entirely in video - a contemporary medium that brought forth great discussion about the nature of art as well as the futility of war. Helena Bezzina, the Gallery’s acting curator, enriched our discussion with perspectives on the artist and his challenging methods & practices. It was definitely a thought provoking experience to view a high profile artist such as Shaun in our local gallery.

Later the group enjoyed a continuation of discussions at Cafe Evolve in Bega’s CBD. I really enjoyed the level of ideas tossed around at both exhibitions and I look forward to offering more art experiences next term, so keep an eye on the program. Helen Neeson ARTiculations U3A Sapphire Coast

For more information about U3A Sapphire Coast ‘ARTiculaitons Outings’ as well as other events currently on offer, look for the latest newsletter or program guide online at: http://u3asapphire.wikispaces.com or phone Pat on (02) 6495 4345.

// 11 attendees who were enthralled with the presentation by the artist, Annie Franklin, of her work at the Narek Gallery. //
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