John Mackay Northe - Ardent Gleanings

17 July 2006 - 2 September 2006

Arts Project Australia is pleased to present John Mackay Northe: Ardent Gleanings - a survey of significant works curated by Dr Cheryl Daye. The exhibition opens on 17 July and will provide a stunning overview of this artist's career.

"One of the core group of artists who have worked at Arts Project Australia for over 15 years, John Northe occupies an important place in symbolising the spirit and purpose of the studio. In John's work, the connection between heart, mind and hand is almost palpable. Whether working with intense feeling in densely applied pastel, or with pure perception and concentration in line, John's work realises a sophisticated naivety which has been likened to qualities found in the work of not only outsider artists, but also some of the most noted artists of the twentieth century."

"As an artist, John Mackay Northe transmutes history, myth and popular culture into his own autobiographical story. He combines subjects, themes and experiences to describe both outer and inner worlds. From actual and vicarious experiences, Northe has invented a rich personal vocabulary of repeated images that includes women, submarines, buffalo, American Indians, eagles, monkeys, dogs, skeletons and references to religion and ancient civilizations."

"Now in his early 60s, John Northe has achieved significant success with his art, including selection for major Australian drawing prize exhibitions, being a co-winner of the Geelong Print Prize and participation in national and international travelling exhibitions. It is timely to reflect on his career, and to bring together, where possible, some of the most significant works he has produced, so that the entirety of his achievements can be appreciated." (by Dr Cheryl Daye, Curator)

A floor talk will be presented by Dr Cheryl Daye on Tuesday 15 August 2006 at 3.30pm (30 mins). We hope you can attend.

In July, Arts Project Australia will also publish a monograph celebrating the work of John Mackay Northe. This publication promises to be a great reference containing essays, full colour images and information about this important artist. The publication ($22) will be available for purchase at the Arts Project Australia gallery.