Burthurmarr’s paintings share the common theme of the natural Australian environment, and his strong connection to it is palpable. He uses acrylic paint in all of the 35 works on display, though various paintings also include other materials such as ochre, mica and metal base. These materials add earthly textures and shine to the paintings, while the clear, clean colour in each art work makes walking through the exhibition a pleasure.
In a time when the environment is a key issue in society it is also a perfect time for the exhibition to be showcased. On experiencing Burthurmarr’s works one gains a new appreciation for what we have and what we have to loose in Australia.
Four smaller framed paintings in the collection, called the ‘Tree Protest Series’, capture the beauty of Australian flora and fauna and the devastation caused by bush fires. Trees are, in fact, a focus throughout the exhibition as a way of resembling life and healing.
The ocean is also strongly present in Buthurmarr’s paintings, and the vibrancy of the blues which he uses to depict the water is breath taking. The whole exhibition is humbling. Well curated, it tells both of past struggles, what we face at present in society in regards to the landscape, and of hope for the future. It is called Eleven because it has taken 11 years to compile, is the artist’s 11th solo exhibition, and is being shown in 2011.
Burthurmarr quotes in a description of one of his paintings that ‘time has a way of healing’ which symbolises that if we are to take action now to save our precious environment we just might have a chance.
Burthurmarr Christopher Crebbin: Eleven
Curator: Renee Johnson
Tandanya – National Aboriginal Cultural Institute, Adelaide
July 15 – September 18
www.tandanya.com.au
