Paris-Lesbos
Before exploring the lives of the Australian women artists who spent time in France (mentioned in a previous post), it is interesting to learn something of the world they entered. …
Touched …
When used as a verb ‘touch’ can mean ‘to influence emotionally’, ‘to put your hand on something’, or ‘to damage something’. To ‘touch’ has all these meanings in a museum …
‘degenerates and perverts’
Artist, art commentator, newspaper critic and one time director of the National Gallery of Victoria, J.S. MacDonald had clear opinions on GOOD art. When the Herald and Weekly Times exhibition …
Paul Cezanne & Emile Zola: Friends
Continuing his interest in nineteenth century artists, Barrie Sheppard looks at the friendship between artist Paul Cezanne and writer Emile Zola. Barrie writes: Paul Cezanne was born in Aix en …
The first three …
Ten years ago the National Gallery of Victoria recognised the under-representation of female artists in the collection and began to actively pursue the acquisition of works by both local and …
‘An elegant work for a drawing-room table’
In 1856, Fanny Anne Charsley embarked on the Persia (described as ‘a noble ship fitted with a great deal of comforts and elegance’) and left London to undertake the three …
‘What’s up doc?’
After a long absence, the French phrase ‘poser un lapin’ (literally to ‘put down a rabbit’) but actually a colloquialism meaning ‘to stand someone up’ seemed appropriate to acknowledge the …
Remembering Edwin Adamson
It was while I was watching the Tokyo Olympics that I was reminded how transient achievements are. As I delved into ‘Olympic images’ in the collection of the National Gallery …
Arch(i)etypal
A co-founder of the ‘Bulletin’, a talented and tireless sub-editor, a supporter of Australian writers (championing Henry Lawson, Banjo Patterson and Louis Becke), a self-confessed francophile (changing his birth name …
Cézanne and the Salon
As we look forward to the opening of the Impressionist exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria, Barrie Sheppard explores the connection of Paul Cézanne with the art world of …
Rembrandt as literary critic
Howard Wallace has been delving ‘artfully’ into the biblical stories that fascinated Rembrandt. Howard writes: The National Gallery of Victoria’s collection of two paintings by Rembrandt does not give a …
‘What if ?’
As the month of May concluded, contact tracers were actively tracking down potential COVID contacts and exposure sites around the city of Melbourne while case numbers grew. Curiously, this ‘hunting’ …
May-Day
‘A Tale of Two Cities’ (1859) by Charles Dickens begins: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was …
Sisley’s ‘seascapes’
Taking her lead from the current exhibition of Australian Impressionists and the forthcoming exhibition of Impressionist art from the Museum of Fine Arts (Boston) at the National Gallery of Victoria, …
For the birds …
Another wonderful piece from Barrie Sheppard. Barrie writes: If you happen to be on the viewing platform opposite the shops at Point Lonsdale at about 8:00 am on a Tuesday …
‘Jokesmithery’ in the Golden Age
Writing in 1973, the art historian Ernst Gombrich (somewhat portentously) noted: ‘In … the history of art, we have become intolerably earnest. A false prestige has come to be attached …
World Health Day
Today, April 7, is World Health Day. Since 1950, the World Health Organization has celebrated this day annually and takes the opportunity to focus attention on important aspects of health. …
“white rabbits!”
On the first day of each month it is customary at our house to say: “white rabbits!” as the first utterance we make. This superstitious habit is of unknown origin …
Can ’empathy’ be learned?
How many psychiatrists does it take to change a lightbulb? Only one … but the lightbulb has to want to change. I was reminded of this joke when the discussion …
No Planet B
It has been a year since COVID prematurely shut down the 2020 Melbourne Art Book Fair at the National Gallery of Victoria. But the Book Fair is back – although …
A dog’s perspective
It is just over a year since Beguidedbyart was launched and today’s post is a result of three changes that happened during the ‘lost COVID year’. The first was establishing …
‘B’ is for Buonarotti
‘Still I learn’ and ‘Ambition lead the way’ are two maxims attributed to Michelangelo Buonarroti. The first was the motto and the second featured on the club crest of the …
To sleep, perchance …
Today, March 19, is ‘World Sleep Day’. Organised by the World Sleep Society, this day has been celebrated across the world since 2008. The aim of the day is to …
‘A’ is for Allen’
March is Women’s History Month and it is timely to celebrate a woman who was once recognised for her contribution to Australian culture but is now largely forgotten. Let’s meet …
‘A’ is for Abrahams
From April to August this year, the National Gallery of Victoria will hold an exhibition of Australian Impressionist art entitled ‘She-Oak and Sunlight’. Curated by scholar and historian, Dr Anne …
Picturing Wright
Barrie Sheppard considers Joseph Wright’s interest in self-portraiture by delving back in history. Barrie write: Joseph Wright of Derby painted six self portraits in oils approximately ten years apart. The …
‘Barbie Girl’
The theme of International Women’s Day this year ‘Choose to Challenge’ is about empowerment and options. This reminded me of the way Mattel co-founder, Ruth Handler, imagined the potential of …
Joseph Wright of Derby
Barrie Sheppard continues his exploration of the world of British art and artists. Barrie writes: The old adage of not judging a book by its cover remains good advice, reminding …
Celebrating Hollick
On the first Saturday in March 1930, Miss Ruth Hollick and Miss Dorothy Izard held an event at their photographic studio in Collins Street, Melbourne to honour the approaching marriage …
Remembering Doré
Tucked away in the National Gallery of Victoria’s ‘works on paper’ collection is a copy of Gustave Doré’s ‘Two Hundred Sketches – Humorous and Grotesque’ from 1867. While Paul Gustave …
Empathy
This week the National Gallery of Victoria announced its program for 2021. A highlight will be a major exhibition of 100 masterworks of French Impressionism in partnership with the Museum …
White Lies: Sculpture from Antiquity
Reflecting on the colours of ancient sculptures, Susanne Pearce discusses a memorable exhibition she saw in Berlin. Susanne writes: Amanda Dunsmore (Senior Curator, International Decorative Arts and Antiquities at the …
Picturing the landscape
Barrie Sheppard takes us on a tour of the landscape in the 19th century, seen through the eyes of two important English artists. Barrie writes: Seventeenth century landscape artist Claude …
‘the writing is on the wall’
The expression ‘the writing is on the wall’ reminds us of imminent danger or soon to be realised unfortunate inevitable consequences. Coming from the Aramaic ‘mene mene tekel upharsin’, it …
More ‘bloody’ ox stuff …
In China, the ‘ox’ is not just prominent as a working, mythological, zodiac or artistic animal, it also lends its name to a deep red colour of ceramic glaze – …
Ox(idate)
I wonder if it is fortuitous that this Chinese Year is the ‘Year of the Ox’. Commencing on 12 February, it was perfectly timed to coincide with the short stage …
Be my Valentine?
‘Will you be my valentine?’ – the question posed annually to potential romantic interests – is probably more fraught this year with Melbourne in stage 4 hard lockdown on Valentine’s …
Varnish Day
Barrie Sheppard continues his illuminating discussion of J M W Turner’s artistic practice. Barrie writes: Varnish day at London’s Royal Academy during the nineteenth century would be more aptly named …
AUSSIE
January 26 continues to provoke considerable discussion and debate in Australia about the significance of celebrating the British colonisation of the country and its impact on the indigenous population. In …
Womba(r)t
Of all our native animals, the one I feel the greatest affinity with is the ‘wombat’. This animal captured the attention of the early settlers and explorers through first contact …
And I would that my tongue could utter …
Barrie Sheppard continues his exploration of the life and times of Turner. Barrie writes: In December 1807 JMW Turner, Royal Academician since 1802, was elected Professor of Perspective. He was …
‘FINE’
My current favourite four-letter word is ‘fine’. It is a multi-purpose word and can be a noun, verb, or adjective. Given its functionality, it is perfectly suited to the state …
Food for Thought
On re-reading this year’s blogposts, I was reminded of the saying from the Gospel of John: ‘Let him who is without sin cast the first stone’. Accordingly, I must admit …
Caput
Having just watched an interview with the lawyer representing Jacob Chansley (AKA Jake Angeli) – the self-professed QAnon Shaman, who was dressed in furs, horns, body paint and carrying a …
Constable in love
Barrie Sheppard continues his exploration of the life and times of John Constable. Barrie writes: In 1816, English landscape painter John Constable married Maria Bicknell. He was 40, she 28. …
Resolve
The engraving of Auratus Janus … in the collection of the National Gallery of Victoria reminds us of the important and unique Roman god, Janus, who may lend his name …
Goodbye 2020
It is customary at this time of the year to reflect on the highs and lows of the preceding twelve months. Many will be unlikely to experience nostalgia for a …
The Golden Dagger of Ahasuerus
In today’s post, Howard Wallace examines the significance of the golden dagger in the biblical story of Esther. Howard writes: Arent De Gelder (1645-1727), a one-time student of Rembrandt, has …
Temeraire
Boxing Day is a day for relaxation after the festivities of Christmas Day. Australian artist Deborah Walker’s lithograph in the collection of the National Gallery of Victoria suggests one possible …
Dunbar 2020
As we re-engage with our family and friends after months of limited social contact, I was reminded of the work by British anthropologist, Robin Dunbar, who examined the number of …
A Devlin of an Artist
Prior to ‘cashless covid commerce’ most of us have unknowingly handled Australian gold and silversmith Stuart Devlin’s most enduring artistic creations. Devlin designed Australia’s first decimal coinage system which was …
The Star of Bethlehem
Shortly after sunset tonight (21 December) if the sky is clear enough, it will be possible to view the conjunction of the planets Jupiter and Saturn. The fusion of two …
Painting the Inside of the Church
As we once again have the opportunity to attend religious services during the festive season, Howard Wallace muses on: ‘What drives an artist to paint the interior of a church?’. …
Seeing Red
Another fascinating insight into the lives of English artists – John Constable and JMW Turner by Barrie Sheppard. Barrie writes: John Constable was elected an Associate Member of the Royal …
Fashioning Men
On reading ‘Pants Man!’ a number of readers pointed out the serendipity of the Australian Prime Minister ‘launching’ this year’s Melbourne Fashion Week as an entrant in the category of …
Playing the game …
Barrie Sheppard provides a glimpse into the ‘strategic mind’ of the English artist, Joseph Mallord William Turner. Barrie writes: J. M. W. Turner applied for Associate membership of the Royal …
Pants Man!
When Australian Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, entered quarantine after his recent overseas trip to Japan, he allowed his personal photographer, Adam Taylor, to snap him in his shorts. The image …
What would we do without collectors?
In a beautifully crafted piece that combines literature and art, Helen Robinson writes: Having a bit more time on my hands lately has allowed me to make progress through my …
Betweenity
The United States is currently in a presidential transition, the name given to the period when the president-elect prepares to take over the administration from the current president – that …
A contemporary Geryon
In Greek mythology there is a particularly ferocious gigantic monster known as Geryon. The grandson of Medusa, he is described as being ‘humanoid’ but having three heads and, in some …
Two Portraits
Barrie Sheppard continues to reflect on 18th century portraiture. Barrie writes: Both Sir Joshua Reynolds and Thomas Gainsborough painted portraits of Mrs Sarah Siddons, the acclaimed Welsh-born English actress famous …
Teacher’s Pet
When ‘Gazza’ the regional Victorian farmer, dropped off our new puppy, Marty, he offered one piece of advice. “I have found that a smack on the bottom with a rolled-up …
Mental Health Month
October is Mental Health Month in Australia and the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the escalating emotional consequences of dealing with the many ramifications of our changed lives. While the need …
Melbourne Then … and Now
Early last month, the director of the National Gallery of Victoria, Tony Ellwood, announced that the NGV would acknowledge the 10th anniversary of its hugely successful 2013 exhibition – Melbourne …
The London Pantheon
Barrie Sheppard takes us on a stroll in Georgian London. Barrie writes: If you have had the pleasure of strolling down Oxford Street, London, you may recall passing a Marks …
Vale: Kenzo Takada (1939-2020)
Wendy Hughes Chuck remembers designer Kenzo Takada. Wendy writes: When I read on Monday that Kenzo Takada had died, aged 81, in a Paris hospital of complications from Covid-19, I …
Reynold’s ‘Herculean’ painting
Barrie Sheppard continues to add to our knowledge of the life and times of Sir Joshua Reynolds. Barrie writes: The Hermitage in St Petersburg holds Sir Joshua Reynolds’ history painting …
Quaintrelle
As another week commences, and we get nearer to the end of lockdown, it is possible we will once again start to experience ‘sonntagsleerung’ an early 20th century German word …
‘Paper Boy’
Nita Jawary reflects on ‘Paper Boy’ by Florence Fuller. Nita writes: Nita also recommends reading the essay by Michael Varcoe-Cocks (Conservation Department, NGV) published on the NGV website in April …
At a loss for words…
After watching yesterday’s American presidential debate, the less said the better. Perhaps the next debate will fare better … We can only hope …
Musings
Barrie Sheppard continues his exploration of ekphrasis. Barrie writes: Thank you, wordsmith!
You gotta S-M-I-L-E
After yet another zoom/webex/Microsoft teams meeting where I was confronted with a checkerboard of faces, I was reminded of the photograph ‘Crowd #9 (Sunset Five)’ 2013 by Los Angeles photographer, …
Deconstructing Louise
Looking at Tom Roberts’ portrait of Louise Smith, Sylvia Walsh digs deep. Sylvia writes: ‘As a reflection of historic appearances this painting raises many questions: Who was Louise? Captured in …
Gainsborough’s letters
Once again, Barrie Sheppard gives us a greater insight into Gainsborough’s creative abilities. Barrie writes: Famous for his talent with paint brush and pencil, Thomas Gainsborough also had considerable skill …
Another COVID Experience
Over recent weeks we have heard a lot about state borders and restrictions. The limitations placed upon us have created significant consternation and, in some cases, considerable hardship. This has …
Vale: Kate Daw
It is probably a year since I saw Kate Daw, but it feels like it was much more recent. Kate was one of those people who was always around – …
Conflicted
Today there are two poems which both refer to conflicted relationships. The first is by Nita Jawary and is a response to Orchardson’s ‘The first cloud‘: The second poem is …
The Rivals – Gainsborough vs Reynolds
Barrie Sheppard continues his exploration of the lives of two great English artists. Barrie writes: Thomas Gainsborough (born 1727) was married. His wife, Mary, was the illegitimate daughter of the …
Feeling trapped? Write!
The extension of the current pandemic lockdown has caused considerable community consternation. While disappointing and discouraging, my medical background, and continuing awareness of the global health chaos, supports the cautious …
Father’s Day
Looking at the paintings of fathers in the collection of the National Gallery of Victoria on Father’s Day, I wondered which best symbolised my relationship with my father. Ultimately, I …
Ekphrasis
‘Ekphrasis’ means a literary description of, or commentary on, a visual work of art. Nita Jawary has been exploring this literary device in relation to four artworks in the collection …
Miss Kitty Fisher
In another delve into the world of Georgian society, Barrie Sheppard introduces us to Miss Kitty Fisher. Barrie writes: The NGV has its Cleopatra about to drop her pearl of …
Picturing Paul
In the article ‘Richard Lewer: You Wouldn’t Make This Stuff Up’, issue 9 of Vault magazine 2015, Rebecca Gallo describes how New Zealand-born Lewer uses art to ‘delve deep into …
‘The earth laughs in flowers’
In 1891 Artur Loureiro (the Portuguese-born, but Melbourne-residing artist) painted his vision of ‘Spring’ in Kew, Melbourne. In a lush, verdant and peaceful sylvan setting a young woman stands next …
Love is all you need…
This week I received some reading recommendations from Susie May who suggested writers I might enjoy following up – Rutger Bregman, Jeremy Lent, and Roman Krznaric. Many of us are …
A Stare Case
Our regular contributor, Barrie Sheppard, provides another titillating insight into the ‘Georgian art world’. Barrie writes: Before occupying its present quarters (Burlington House on Piccadilly) in 1869, the Royal Academy …
It’s Time
Older readers, familiar with the 1972 Australian Labor Party campaign slogan ‘It’s Time’ (and given my obvious interest in the upcoming American election), might think that this post is another …
Still relevant
How long do we look at a work of art in a gallery? Numerous studies have shown that it is usually under 30 seconds – with the average being under …
You can’t ‘A Ford’ to offend
Barrie Sheppard continues to take us into the world of 18th century British artists – this time Thomas Gainsborough. Barrie writes: Just as in our world a property developer builds …
Deep in thought
For those who have taken an interest in National Science Week, you may have noticed that I have not responded to this year’s theme – ‘Deep Blue’. This is partly …
A memento of 19th century Australian fashion
While an evening out is currently not possible, Sylvia Walsh reminds us that we should aspire to more than ‘tracky dacks’ during the COVID curfew. Sylvia writes: Portrait of my …
Scientists and Art
Continuing my exploration of the National Gallery of Victoria for ‘National Science Week’, I decided to try the search term ‘scientist’. This proved less fruitful than I expected, with only …
Art of Science
The weekly newsletter from the National Gallery of Victoria reminds us that this week is National Science Week. The article looks at what goes on ‘Behind the Scenes’ in the …
“Be careful what you wish for”
Barrie Sheppard continues his insights into the ‘life and times of Sir Joshua Reynolds’. Barrie writes: When Allan Ramsay, Principle Painter in Ordinary to King George III, died on August …
Cat-A-Tonic
Wendy Hughes Chuck’s recent article on ‘Dogs in Art’ has opened my eyes to a new aspect of myself. We often hear that the world is divided into dog …
Man’s Best Friend – Dogs in Art
‘Every dog has its day’ and today Wendy Hughes Chuck is letting dogs in art off the leash. Wendy writes: “Man’s Best Friend” has been portrayed in art and written …
Head Hunting
Yesterday’s article on Judith and Holofernes by Susanne Pearce generated considerable interest in my inbox. Most readers agreed with Susanne that Artemisia Gentileschi’s ‘active portrayals’ of Judith dealing with the …
Judith and Holofernes
Susanne Pearce has been thinking about the depictions of the story ‘Judith and Holofernes’. Susanne writes: ‘Her sandal ravished his eyes, her beauty captivated his mind, and the sword severed …
Maison Lesage: Haute Couture Embroidery
Kim Baker is taking a look at a fascinating component of the NGV’s Fashion and Textile Collection. Kim writes: ‘During Stage 3 and now Stage 4 restrictions in Melbourne, due …
Art and the ‘Triple A’ Rating
‘Triple A’ is a phrase most commonly associated with the economy and is the highest grade indicating an unusually strong capacity to deal with economic challenges. In late June this …
Who was Sir Joshua Reynolds’ editor?
Barrie Sheppard continues to delve into the life of the artist Sir Joshua Reynolds. Barrie writes: ‘Joshua Reynolds and lexicographer, novelist, essayist and literary critic Samuel Johnson were close friends …
Dan (Hercules) Andrews
The current COVID-19 situation is a chastening experience. I was thinking about how mythological heroes, in particular Hercules, coped with adversity. It was then that I found this cartoon from …
By George – it’s Svengali!
Busson is not an aristocratic surname. So, it is not surprising that the Parisian tradesman and speculator, who left France in 1789 to avoid charges of fraud, decided to add …
Marriage Guidance!!
Another poetic insight into art by Lynn Morgan: Thank you again, Lynn. My grandmother always used to say: ‘The second marriage is for the KILL!’
Unfinished business
Xavier Salomon, The Chief Curator at The Frick Museum, makes no secret of his fondness for the art of Paolo Veronese. In the two most recent episodes of ‘Cocktails with …
Tom and Jerry
As the current coronavirus situation remains precarious, and lockdown likely to continue for weeks to come, today’s cartoon in ‘The New Yorker’ reminded me of the need for ‘comfort experiences’ …
At the Neues Museum
The post on Nefertiti reminded Barrie Sheppard of his visit to Berlin. Barrie writes: ‘While in Berlin in 2011, I sought out the Nefertiti in The Neues Museum. Apart from …
My favourite piece
In response to my invitation to post ‘art that has changed my life’, Leone Shaw has sent the following. Leone writes: ‘Carved from limestone 3,500 years ago, as part of …
Season 1 – ‘The Shirleys’
Readers responded enthusiatically to the miniseries ‘The Graftons’ and hoped more might eventuate. Let’s meet ‘The Shirleys’. Our series begins in the affluent Surrey town of East Sheen on 20 …
This Artwork Changed My Life
During the week Robyn Price sent me a link to an article on the Artsy website which prompted this post. The article is one of several in a series: ‘This …
Reynold’s Hands
Barrie Sheppard has recently been pondering the ability of Sir Joshua Reynolds R. A. to paint hands. Barrie writes: ‘Recently, an acquaintance of mine commented during a Johnson Society of …
‘Break a leg’ – Japanese style
Another fascinating insight into Japanese culture by Wendy Hughes Chuck. Wendy writes: ‘When I lived in Japan I very much enjoyed outings to the theatre. Japanese productions of contemporary European …
Camouflage you, camouflage me
Thank you again Lynn Morgan for ‘another way of seeing’.
I have a secret
‘I have a secret’ are four of the most intriguing, and possibly the most infuriating, words. They generate interest, inquisitiveness, frustration and even anxiety. We all like to know what …
Job (2)
Thank you very much to Howard Wallace for sharing his thoughts and insights about Job as depicted by William Blake. Howard writes: ‘Being a biblical scholar it prompted me to …
Gown up!
Now that we have mastered masks, it is time to consider the rest of the ensemble. The Dutch fashion house – Viktor and Rolf – has some important suggestions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=126&v=_DI0Dbod9CI&feature=emb_logo
A la commode
In the most recent episode of ‘Cocktails with a Curator’, Xavier Salomon from The Frick Collection sips a Kir Royale from a champagne coupe and reflects on furniture made by …
14 July
July 14 is celebrated in France as Fête nationale and remembers the ‘Storming of the Bastille’ on this day in 1789. The taking of this medieval armoury, fortress and political …
Mask up!
It is curious that it has taken so long for masks to be adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic as humans have employed and enjoyed mask wearing for millennia. The oldest …
Job
With the current COVID-19, economic and cultural chaos it is not surprising that the suffering of Job comes to mind. For those unfamiliar with the story, Job is a prosperous, …
‘After’ Holbein
Sir Thomas More – lawyer, philosopher, statesman and Lord High Chancellor to King Henry VIII of England – was executed for treason on this day, 6 July, 485 years ago …
The Deeper Meaning of Liff
A big thank you to Patti Bradbury for some ‘whimsy in winter’. Patti writes: ‘Michael’s recent references to little used words reminded me that I have a book entitled The …
The Fourth of July
The Fourth of July, or Independence Day, in the United States of America commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This document declared that thirteen American colonies …
Paolo Veneziano
In a recent episode of ‘Travels with a Curator’, Xavier Salomon from The Frick Collection takes us to San Severino Marche, Italy, to discuss ‘Coronation of the Virgin’ by Paolo …
Ozias Humphry
As a member of the Royal Academy, and with the appointment ‘Portrait Painter in Crayons to the King’ in 1792, one might imagine that Ozias Humphry would be more than …
My kingdom was a horse
At the age of 8, George was really interested in looking at bones. As his father was a currier (a dresser of animal skins) he undoubtedly had access to plenty …
Victoria(n) artist
June 28, 1838 was the day Queen Victoria was crowned at Westminster Abbey. A number of people have described the event which, according to the historian, Roy Strong, was the …
Pictures at an exhibition (2)
Thank you again to Lynn Morgan for ….
Causerie
From my book ‘Lost Words…’ there is the 19th century English word ’causerie’. Coming from the French for ‘talk’ or ‘chat’ – and often used in the context of a …
A COVID Decameron
It is now 100 days (and 100 articles) since Beguidedbyart commenced as a response to the coronavirus lockdown. Giovanni Boccaccio set a precedent for writing 100 stories in ‘The Decameron’ …
Choreomania
When crises are over, people often feel the need to dance. In the closing scenes of the recent satirical antiwar movie, ‘Jojo Rabbit’, Jojo and Elsa dance to celebrate the …
don’t worry
As the number of coronavirus cases trebled in Melbourne this week, other countries struggled with upticks in infections, the economy foundered, and public demonstrations about racism continued, I was reminded …
Here’s looking at you …
From the feedback I have received, ‘Cocktails with a Curator’ from The Frick has proved to be a highlight of the week. While I suspect the reason is the very …
‘The Graftons’
In the introduction to ‘Soap Box’, Hilary Kingsley’s guide to soap operas, Kingsley describes the essence of this type of entertainment as: ‘ it must be a continuing story with …
‘One of the Young Lions of a Butterfly’ – Mortimer Menpes
James McNeill Whistler’s influence extended to Australia. Monica Healy reminds us of another painter in Whistler’s circle. Australian artist Mortimer Menpes was also one of Whistler’s studio assistants – what …
A different Madonna
Every day at 5pm my smartphone ‘pings’ and the DailyArt app sends me an image of an artwork – ‘my daily dose of art’. A couple of weeks ago, the …
Painting music
The third member of James McNeill Whistler’s coterie to spark my interest was Ignace-Henri-Jean-Théodore Fantin-Latour, called ‘Fantin’ by his friends. Fantin (1836-1904) was a painter, printmaker and illustrator who is …
Finding ‘nemo’
If your father happened to be an artist, then it is probably not surprising that he would encourage his oldest child to pursue a different (more predictably profitable?) profession. So, …
All About Xavier
Today’s post comes from Wendy Hughes Chuck who, like many of us, has discovered a new ‘COVID celebrity’. Wendy writes: Cocktails with a Curator “Good evening and welcome to this …
The ‘Blanche’ rabbit
After last week’s hiatus, ‘Cocktails with a Curator’ from The Frick Collection has returned. In this episode, curator Xavier Salomon swigs on a Sake highball as he reflects on James …
The first cartoon hero?
In 1809 the writer William Combe and the artist Thomas Rowlandson created a character called Dr Syntax who is believed to be the world’s first cartoon character. William Combe (1742-1823) …
‘Taking a knee’
What does it mean to kneel? What beliefs or emotions does kneeling communicate to others? The action ‘taking a knee’ has become increasingly common and is now seen around the …
The naked snollygoster
Early this year I bought a book titled ‘Lost Words – Collywobbles, Snollygosters, and other surprisingly useful terms worth resurrecting’ by Joe Gillard. It was the word ‘snollygosters’ that made …
Powolny’s putti
Yesterday’s post looked at gargoyles, so today I will move from ‘the dark to the light’ and look at the other carved objects we might find overhead – putti. A …
Observing the world from afar
While I am watching the ‘world from afar’ I am reminded of gargoyles – those carved architectural fantastical forms that perch on the roofs of old buildings to prevent the …
For the person who has everything?
It is the Queen’s birthday long weekend and the annual acknowledgement of our Monarch. As a member of the Commonwealth of Nations we, along with other Commonwealth countries and territories, …
‘the vilest man I have ever known’
Yesterday there was considerable attention given around Australia to the ongoing plight of the Indigenous population. The choice of the date (6 June) was perhaps unintended for its significance, but …
Black Lives Matter
Today, due to the medical wisdom of maintaining social distancing, many of us will not be able to support, by our presence, the ‘Black Lives Matter’ public gathering. Over many …
Lifters and Leaners
As the economy is now in a recession the focus is clearly on ensuring jobs are available and secure. With programs like JobSeeker, JobKeeper and JobMaker, we have fortunately moved …
Vale Christo
1969 was a year when big things happened. Apollo 11 landed on the moon and mankind took a giant leap. The Woodstock music festival ran for three days in upstate …
‘a full dish of various kinds of fruits’
Watching the anger, frustration and despair in America, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and helpless. There is no easy resolution to these longstanding and entrenched difficulties – particularly when …
No words can describe…
‘Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it’ George Santayana, 1905
Winter
Today is the beginning of winter, and with the rain and current local temperature at 9 degrees, the season is announcing its presence. The National Gallery of Victoria has many …
Angelology
Angels often capture the public’s imagination. Back in the 1980s, as part of the New Age Movement, there was a resurgence in ‘angel awareness’ and angelology. ‘A Book of Angels’, …
A saint for our times
On this week’s ‘The Religion and Ethics Report’ on ABC Radio National, there was an interview with American author Tara Isabella Burton. The interview can be streamed on the ABC …
Charles Samuel Keene
I doubt that any of us are familiar with Charles Samuel Keene and his art practice. So, I imagine that it would come as a great surprise to discover that …
Here’s Mickey!
I want to start by acknowledging and paying my respects to the elders past, present and emerging of the Wurundjeri and Boonwurrung people of the Kulin Nation whose ancestors have …
Hugh Ramsay
A big thank you to Margie Richardson for her thoughts on the Hugh Ramsay exhibition at the National Gallery in Canberra. Margie writes: “One of my favourite Australian artists is …
On being a hermit
Now that there is a plan to move from lockdown to re-engage with the world, I have to confess that I have really embraced my ‘inner hermit’. As I have …
Painting Edo
As we contemplate the world from our distant positions, one can recall the long period of distance that Japan experienced during the Edo period from around 1600 to 1868. In …
In absentia
Another Sunday and another ‘in depth’ look at a painting in The Frick Collection with curator Xavier Salomon. This time Salomon discusses Henry Clay Frick’s favourite artwork, Velázquez’ portrait of …
Work for artists: A Depression Era project with relevance today
Today’s informative and extremely interesting post is from Jill Dwyer. Jill writes: Our cultural institutions across the country are closed in response to the current pandemic; and artists, particularly performance …
‘A plague on both your houses’
Had we been alive in the early 17th century when the bubonic plague repeatedly struck London we would not have had the luxury of watching Netflix, having virtual zoom meetings …
Rock Me …..
It is great to see the guides adding to the blog. Today we have a very interesting contribution from artist and president, Brian Martin. Brian writes: “I have a confession …
Synaesthesia
If you were going to have a superpower what would it be? Would it be invisibility? Or the ability to read other’s thoughts? Or would you want to be able …
‘Pictures at an exhibition’
There are many ways to appreciate art. Thank you to Lynn Morgan for her lovely poetic thoughts.
A prescient photographer
The inspiration for today’s blogpost comes from the weekly email by Tony Ellwood AM titled: ‘Capturing a moment in time’. In this message, the Director of the NGV highlights some …
Lounging on Sunday
Sunday afternoon and time to lounge again in front of a screen, sip on a cocktail (this time a ‘French 75’ – a mixture of champagne, gin and lemon) and …
Optical Effects in Indigenous Art – a personal appreciation
Another thoughtful and illuminating post from Susanne Pearce. Susanne writes: While the optical effects used by artists of the Op Art Movement are well known, many indigenous artists have also …
Not the plague again …
In my inbox this week I received an email with the title ‘Get your public art pitch ready with $5k funding from Test Sites Online’. It appears that the City …
Art in the time of COVID – A personal reflection
Thank you to Janice Stanford for a delightful post. Janice writes: “I have never been in a position to purchase artworks by well known artists or indeed by artists not …
Rothko
The recent ‘Weekly Update’ from Tony Ellwood AM (Director of the National Gallery of Victoria) was titled ‘Seeing the world in colour’ and featured Mark Rothko’s Untitled (Red) as its …
How NGV guiding led me to become volunteer coordinator for a Melbourne House Museum
Another great post from Wendy Hughes Chuck which also highlights the extraordinary diversity and commitment of guides. Wendy writes: Back in 2011 when I was a trainee guide, and the …
Optical games – but not for sore eyes!
Today’s post will challenge our vision. Thank you very much to Susanne Pearce for her thoughts on helping us see more. Susanne writes: To look at this work is to …
Remembering my mum
My mother had a proverb for every occasion. If she were alive today she would be in her element. She was quite reclusive and liked nothing better than watching crime …
Gallimaufry
In trying to come up with a collective name for guides, I came across the word ‘gallimaufry’ which comes from mid 16th century French and means ‘a medley or hodge-podge’. …
‘Comme’ comment
This post titled ‘Collection Comme trivia’ is about Karasu Zoku and the French Connection. Thank you to Wendy Hughes Chuck for sharing her thoughts on another recent NGV exhibition: Last …
Salmagundi (2)
Over the past couple of weeks all sorts of things have appeared in my inbox which could be the subject of a post. Instead, I am going to present them …
Words, words, words
In the Lerner and Loewe musical ‘My Fair Lady’, Eliza Doolittle sings a song that begins: ‘words, words, words, I’m so sick of words…’ Another week passes and I have …
What I would like to see…
Curiously, on researching the NGV website using the word ‘Constable’ there is a link to an essay in the NGV ‘Art Journal’ number 23 from 2014. The essay titled ‘Tribute …
Another Constable
John Constable had a lot to say about art and creativity and today’s post begins with two of his thoughts: “Painting is but another word for feeling” (1821) and “We …
Here’s to – John Constable!
It is Sunday again and this afternoon is a good time to settle down with a ‘Gin and Dubonnet’ (reputedly the Queen’s favourite pre-dinner tipple) and join the curator, Aimee …
The Gallia and Langer apartments
As we are all spending so much time in our own homes, Wendy Hughes Chuck has written about the furniture from two apartments, which became part of the NGV collection, …
To sleep, perchance to dream
Over the years I have had a recurring ‘anxiety dream’. These types of dream are very common and have been documented by writers from Homer to Freud. No one really …
Too many Cooks?
Yesterday marked the day when, 250 years ago, James Cook steered his ship the ‘Endeavour’ into Botany Bay and made first contact with the local inhabitants. Not surprisingly, the anniversary …
The perfect exhibition for the times
Many of us will remember how much fun Patrick Pound’s ‘The Great Exhibition’ was at the NGV in 2017. The show provided many opportunities to discover connections between disparate objects …
New ideas
Over the past two years I have been on a committee that awards funding grants to creative individuals including artists, musicians, dancers, film makers, writers, performers etc. twice a year. …
Salmagundi (1)
Every few days someone will send me something that has piqued their interest. It might be an image or an article or a website and I wonder how best to …
Artistiaid o Gymru – Welsh Artists in the NGV Collection
A big THANK YOU to Wendy Hughes Chuck for telling us about her connections with Welsh Art in the NGV Collection. Having been brought up in Wales, I was aware …
Cheers! (2)
A reminder that The Frick in New York is continuing its Friday evening ‘Cocktails with a Curator’ – this time the portrait of ‘Sir John Suckling’ by Antony van Dyck …
Uncomfortable Art Tours
Some of you may have tuned in to ‘The Art Show’ hosted by Namila Benson on Radio National on Wednesday morning. If you missed it you can hear it as …
‘COVIDEO Art’
A number of guides have recommended the following video: And Mandy Yencken found this to share: So I decided it was time for the NGV to use its artworks to …
Crytoscopophilia
Our ‘current virtual world’ has not been too difficult for me as it has allowed me to indulge in my longstanding passion – ‘crytoscopophilia’. In the past I was embarrassed …
Art in the time of plague (2)
It is too early to really know how artists will respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. The images which are already circulating come mainly from street art, memes and the humorous …
To fall with your nose in butter
I have never fancied myself as a matchmaker but occasionally I meet people and think: “I reckon I know someone that you would get on with really well. I think …
Art in the time of plague (1)
As we know from our current situation, crisis generates creativity, and this was certainly the case in the late 14th century when European artists responded to the devastation of the …
Cheers! (1)
It is Sunday, and Sunday afternoon is the perfect time to relax with a cocktail and enjoy a work of art. I entered the word ‘cocktail’ on the NGV website …
The helping professions
Today when a contagion appears we have a clear sense of aetiology, treatment, epidemiology and prevention. This was not the case in the Medieval period when the Black Death emerged. …
A tomb with a ‘view’
The chaos, uncertainty and devastation that came with the Black Death caused profound changes in the Medieval world. This is well-documented by contemporary writers and also reflected in art and …
Dealing with death
Every night we see televised images of bodies being taken from hospitals and stacked in refrigeration trucks before going to overwhelmed funeral parlours. Often people have died without their families …
‘Unprecedented’
It is unprecedented the number of times we hear the word ‘unprecedented’. It seems that ‘unprecedented’ things happen on a daily basis. Perhaps this is not surprising in the context …
Religious week (4)
The final acknowledgement of ‘Holy Week’ comes from Elizabeth Tulloh who shares her thoughts on ‘The derision of Christ’ – a polychrome wooden sculpture in the collection of the National …
Purrukuparli and the Bush Stone Curlew
The NGV Collection has 19 works that depict the story of Purrukuparli – the story of how death came to the Tiwi Islands. This tale and her experience of the …
Religious week (3)
In the salon hang at NGV International we can stop and admire a painting by James Tissot. Titled ‘An interesting story’ this oil on wood panel dated c. 1872 depicts …
Ring, Ring (3)
The final installment in the ‘Ring, Ring’ series features a machine that was used in mental health facilities in Victoria. It is an early version of an electroconvulsive therapy machine. …
Religious week (2)
The name ‘Good Friday’, the day on which Christians commemorate the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ, may seem unusual as the day is typically viewed as solemn. Why is …
Religious week (1)
This week acknowledges a confluence of religious events. In the Christian calendar, it is Holy week, the week that precedes Easter. In the Jewish calendar it is the time of …
Ring, Ring (CTC 2)
Today’s post titled: SCHIAPARELLI AND DALI: MERGING ART AND FASHION, is from Kim Baker and is an excellent resource for guides at NGVI. The wonderful little object Kim tells us …
Raphael
Jill Dwyer reminded me that Raphael Santi (1483 -1520), one of the greatest Italian Renaissance painters, died 500 years ago on Good Friday at the age of 37 years. In …
Ring, Ring (CTC 1)
As the ‘changeover monitor role’ is currently on hold, Merv Keehn has explored his own home gallery collection to consider what he might bequeath to the NGV Design Department for …
Learning at home (part 2)
If you are interested in engaging with more substantial ‘learning at home’ then you might want to consider online courses. In the digital age new styles of learning were developed …
Learning at home (part 1)
No doubt you have already watched all the Netflix movies and miniseries and read all those books that have piled up over the years so …. now that we know …
‘The Garden of Earthly Delights’
Following on from yesterday’s blog about artists’ gardens, Rose Downer drew my attention to one of the most famous gardens in art – ‘The Garden of Earthly Delights’ by the …
Soothing art
Today’s blog arose from an email sent to me by Ros Jonas. On the BBC News App she came across an article about how David Hockney is faring in the …
April Fool’s Day
If you search the word ‘fool’ on the NGV website you will discover that there appears to be only one work in the collection with ‘fool’ in the title The …
Sydney Bienniale
This year Sydney presents its 22nd Bienniale. Titled ‘Nirin’ – a Wiradjuri word meaning “edge” – with the accompanying public program titled ‘Nirin Wir’,or “edge of the sky”, it has …
Familiar voices
It is enjoyable and reassuring to hear the voices of old friends who are not currently part of our immediate world. The NGV is doing a remarkable job of keeping …
Are we all Edward Hopper paintings today?
Many of you will have read the article, ‘Time to Breathe’ by Andrew Stephens in the Spectrum section of The Age on 28 March. Stephens provides an informed and illuminating …
Beauty by a round window
In the late 18th century the Japanese artist Genki Komai (1747-1797), the most distinguished disciple of painter Okyo Maruyama (1733-1795), was living and working in Kyoto. His works were particularly …
Bolumbuku
While exploring the NGV collection online, Nita Jawary found ‘Bolumbuku’, an ancestor figure of the Wahgi people of Papua New Guinea in the collection. The Wahgi come from the Western …
Becoming an artist
Following on from the previous post about the helpfulness of being an artist, there are a number of ‘how to do it’ art tutorials on youtube: https://www.creativebloq.com/features/the-10-best-youtube-art-channels However, as this …
Lament
Thank you to our president, Brian Martin, who commissioned his ‘Poet Laureate’, (Sir) Barrie Sheppard, to write a poem to capture the loss of what we are all feeling at …
The crisis
Thank you to Sheila Butler for sending me her thoughts on a painting at the NGV: In our current predicament my mind has turned to works in the NGV collection …
The safety of being an artist
Those at the highest risk of contracting the coronavirus infection, as one might expect, are health care workers, including registered nurses, paramedics and doctors. So if you wanted to avoid …
Narrative Prophylaxis
In the NGV collection online you can find an engraving attributed to Heironymous Cock (date not recorded) that was purchased by the Felton Bequest in 1923. It is a picture …
More virtual art and other forms of entertainment
Thank you very much to Jill Dwyer and Kim Baker for their suggestions of virtual art resources to keep us informed and entertained. Jill has provided a link to Sebastian …
Looking after ourselves
There are a number of ways we can look after ourselves in this difficult period. Julie Stone has shared a link from The School of Life – ‘The Stay at …
Melbourne Food and Wine Festival
As we are now ‘social distancing’, you probably won’t be attending any of the Food and Wine Festival events. This is an opportunity to create your own event at home. …
Hello guides!
Welcome to a blog about art that will keep us informed, involved and connected in this challenging time. It is now uncertain when we will gather again as a group. …