Liz Coats: FRESH GROWTH

Liz Coats, Fresh Growth 2009
acrylic on board and canvas
nine panels, each: 48 x 50 cm, overall: 150 x 156 cm

Showing in the window gallery from 20 May.

In memory of artist, John Reid and his contribution to environmental awareness.

John envisaged and led a group of environmentally active artists connected to the ANU School of Art, on the field study series – Engaging Visions – Engaging artists with the community about the environment.

Fresh Growth was made and included in a group exhibition curated by John Reid at the Benalla Art Gallery, Victoria in 2009, after visits to the Benalla district in 2009.

Liz’s statement for the Benalla exhibition :

I sometimes like to think that my paintings are alive, like little animals or growing things, especially as they come to fruition. I look for animation/vitality in a painting as I work on it, and it comes through the colours. At the same time my head is busy working through the technical challenges, so that balance, ambiguity, depth and also, may I say beauty, have a chance.

After our first visit to Northern Victoria and Benalla, I’m remembering the different beauty that shows after drought or fire, when the rains come with new growth, and the powerful desire of local people to nourish the environment and assist in returning the land to health. All these impressions being offered, return as memories in the studio.