A cutting-edge, artist-run, open access festival for all artists, including circus, poetry, dance, burlesque, visual arts, and performance in a wide range of venues, the Brisbane Fringe Festival is now into its second year of operation.
The inclusion of more visual arts this year stimulated me to get along to Nic Plowman and Sam Eyles’ studio at 25 Waterview Terrace, Dutton Park. Situated near the Brisbane River, the studio boasts river views and is open to the breeze; an impressive location for an afternoon of art ingestion.
A finalist for the Doug Moran Portrait Prize, Sydney, Nic Plowman’s latest, inspiring artworks include incredibly executed 2D pieces, such as the larger than life portrait Outlaw No 2, depicting the face of Muslim sociologist Susan Carland wittily juxtaposed with the helmet of Ned Kelly. This powerful, symbolic artwork explores the call to ban the burqa and raises questions such as ‘Who is Australian?’ and ‘Who is the Outlaw?’
Life drawings, and studies from projects over recent months and years, were also displayed. Further works by the artist presented included impressive drawings from an Artist Residency conducted at the Art Vault in Mildura, Victoria. The beauty, depth of perception and stylistic maturity of Plowman’s artworks can be breathtaking.
This focus on cultural/social inclusion endeared me to Plowman’s artworks; clearly he is prolific as he is tenacious, while continuing to be inspired by subcultural subjects and the human condition. His upcoming solo exhibition at Anthea Polson Art on the Gold Coast opens 7 December.
I headed over to the other side of the studio to meet Sam Eyles and get a closer look at his latest artworks, tiptoeing as I did to avoid stepping on the many drawings strewn over the floor – which I soon found out were throwaways; a brilliant way to invite patrons in for a closer look.
A substantial amount of Eyles’ artwork exemplifies abstract expressionism; line and text dominate the current collection in mediums such as pastel and watercolor pencil. Hints of the influence of Pollock and Fairweather are visible. Breaking down six universal themes, such as Suffering and Perseverance, the calligraphy in his work implies an empathy with nature and the inner experience. The piece Passion Fruit Flower embodied this theme for me.
Eyles’ artworks have recently been exhibited at The Loading Dock Café, West End.
Other visitors came through the studio; they enjoyed the space, bought artworks, and shared a juice or beer while talking and laughing warmly with the artists.
The yarns and time shared with the artists made for an enriching experience; together with the delightful, spontaneous drawings of a guest’s dog made by Plowman, this ensured a fun and insightful experience for patrons of the Brisbane Fringe.
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Open Studio Show
Nic Plowman & Sam Eyles
Scout Hut, Dutton Park
8 September
Brisbane Fringe Festival
brisbanefringe.com
1 – 14 September
