HIDDEN FACES
The 2023 Victorian Salon des Refusés
This portrait was submitted to the 2020 Archibald Prize.
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yCat#22 Sharon Monagle
LASTLY LES ROSES Dr. Rose Lucas Acrylic on Canvas 120 w x 120 h cm NFS Artist’s Statement This painting, titled “Lastly: Les Roses” depicts my friend, academic and award-winning poet, Dr Rose Lucas. The title is borrowed from Rose’s poem, part of a series that respond to the artworks of Monet. Whether in her poetry or in day to day conversation, Rose’s words are carefully, eloquently chosen. They have deep meaning and evoke vivid imagery. “this perpetual and renewing season, this perfumed possibility of seeing for the very first time.” (1) Rose sat for me at her weekend residence set in bushland in the southeast of Melbourne. I worked from sketches taken from life and from photographs of Rose in the garden. I had painted Rose several times before, but on this occasion I went to her poetry to look for clues, for a way to capture her essence. Rose challenges me - and everyone - around her. She is a truth teller. She is not afraid of change and renewal. She helps me to see – things in myself, in others and in my environment. This passage really resonated with me, and the palette used by Monet seemed perfect also. It allowed me to capture Roses strength whilst also revealing her softness. (1) “Lastly: Le Roses, by Rose Lucas. Published in Unexpected Clearing, UWA Press 2015 |