Explore the work of Arthur Boyd and reflect on the first major exhibition to consider the social and political consciousness that influenced his art. Immerse yourself in the rich collection of significant artworks by Boyd and his dynastic Australian artist family members.
This exhibition position’s Boyd as a critical yet empathetic witness engaged with the urgent issues of his time, issues still highly relevant for audiences today. Boyd’s works also often feature recurring mythology with imagery depicting metamorphoses between human and animal figures, as well as landscapes experienced and remembered.
Exploring five key themes: Artist as witness; Self and society; Madness of war; One world – environment; and Empathetic eye – connects man and world. The exhibition also contains a small archive of photographs, letters and other documents that provide a greater insight into Boyd’s historical, cultural and social milieu.
Alongside the Boyd collection are selected works by his significant modern Australian contemporaries, such as Sidney Nolan, Charles Blackman and Leonard French. This is a great opportunity for visitors to access work from Australian artists of such high calibre which have significantly contributed to shaping the identity of Australian culture.
This exhibition is presented as part of the Museum of Australian Democracy’s Art of Influence program – inspiring exhibitions and events celebrating Canberra’s Centenary Year. Art of Influence explores the role of the artist as activist, influencing and influenced by the changing nature of Australia’s democracy.
For more information, visit: www.moadoph.gov.au for details.
Image: Arthur Boyd, Hanging rocks with bathers and Mars, c1985, oil on canvas. Bundanon Trust Collection.
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