9 Artist in France…

This unique exhibition showcases not only the talents of these intrepid artists, but displays the joyous experience of artistic process and the exchange of creativity nurtured in a small home in Lesperon, France, shared for 4 weeks between 9 Australian artists ranging from 23 years old to 75 years young. 

What was initially expected to be a response to the wider French landscape became a much more inward look at the haven we found ourselves in, encompassed and enclosed by lines of seemingly never-ending pine. In the warm earlier weeks, the group was drawn out into the garden to paint and draw, engaging with the space for the first time, sunning our backs and consuming copious amounts of cheese and wine. As weather grew colder, the group was slowly driven inside to the comfort of the fireside and cups of tea around pillow bordered coffee tables. As our space became smaller, so did our focus and we retreated into the comfortable and introspective silence of our practices. 

Here we aim to show the entirety of the artistic process, and the joys of it. From sketch books, collages and preliminary drawings made in situ - to paintings and sculptures developed in studios months later. Each step is held in the same reverence as a “finalised” work. This show aims to place the viewer inside the world of our art making, and display the diversity of expression within the group. 

- Written by Imogen Welch