Rex Backhaus-Smith has rightly gained respect and admiration from the art world and is recognized as a leading Australian painter.
Rex has recently launched a new book which outlines his life as well as his art. “an artist’s journey” is obviously richly illustrated with his captivating paintings, enticing the reader to turn every page, but then to return and study each image.
Complementing his artistic journey in this book are some very personal photos of delightful childhood moments. Caught in black and white they range from simple paddock scenes through to visiting European cultural sights.
"Whisperings"
The narrative reveals deep feelings of this thoughtful, but determined man. He never took his eyes off the goal of becoming a professional artist, which he achieved some 35 years ago because of the originality and relevance of his beautiful paintings.
Rex portrays the bush through celebrating its changes such as the ravages of fire and flood, but also understanding the necessary and unpredictable cycles of nature.
It is often his dynamic watercolours that enthrall with their strength and their stories. These are important works which contain the essence of the outback. They depict the landscape; the innate power and resilience of wildlife; the ebb and flow of man’s influence on the land and its ability always to prevail.
"The Burnt Tree"
The inspiration of more local scenery can be seen in “Whisperings of the Glasshouse Mountains” which combines the majesty of the mountains with the marks of man. Whether its pineapples or fence posts, everything is bound by the natural and spiritual depth of the area.
This book gives insight into Backhaus-Smith’s world and will greatly interest those who love his art, who want to learn more about his influences, his techniques and his approach to his work. On Saturday June 6, the Rex will be signing copies of his book from 3pm surrounded by an exhibition of his works at ‘Art on Cairncross’.
The paintings will remain on display until the end of June and copies of the book will be available too (including limited edition copies each containing an original watercolour).
Also during June the Premier will announce whether or not Rex has been included in the final Q150 Icons list of influential artists.
The exhibition will then travel to the Stockman’s Hall of Fame Gallery at Longreach for July.
Call Art on Cairncross: 5429 6404 or www.artoncairncross.com.au for more details.
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