Exhibition Dates: 26 March - 14 April 2019 PHILIP DAVEY 35 Derby Street Collingwood VIC 3066 A year in the studio Open 7 days 10am to 6pm

MEDIA RELEASE

In his current exhibition A year in the studio, Philip Davey masterfully combines imagery and themes from the works of naturalists, explorers and early artists with his own distinctive landscapes, which he has developed and refined during his many years as anen plein air painter. The artist’s reverence for and close observation of land and wildlife is poignantly interwoven with the experiences of artists who preceded him, resulting in vibrant, multi layered works which are strikingly unique, yet resonate with a sense of the familiar.

This exhibition sees the artist further his explorations into the flora and fauna observed by Colonial explorers; native birds and flowers of the Australian bush are recreated with such energy and rich colour that the viewer might experience them with fresh eyes, as if discovering their magnificence for the first time.

A powerful and recurring image throughout this series is a small and central body of water; a vital element of life on this planet which reflects its stunning surroundings. The light of the moon and the ancient trees that encircle it are echoed in its surface. This evocative image takes its inspiration from the famous black dam on the road to Clifton Pugh’s property at Dunmoochin, painted many times by Pugh himself and also by artists Fred Williams, John Olsen and .

Another object portrayed in these works is the potent image of a house of cards placed within the landscape, echoing the delicate balance of the earth’s ecosystems that have evolved over time and the inherent fragility of our environment.

A year in the studio also showcases a stunning series of ceramic birds, one of which cracked in the kiln and has been repaired by the artist with copper rivets. The beautiful scars, metal stitches and the devoted restoration of this piece further highlight the artist’s respect and care for both his chosen medium and for the natural world which his artworks reflect.

A year in the studio is current until 14 April 2019.

For more details or images contact: A ustralian G alleries [email protected] australiangalleries.com.au 03 9417 4303