A splash of colourful and joyous Ken Done is the dose of happiness we all need in our lives right now.
The good folk at Tweed Regional Art Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre have delivered the perfect antidote to the lockdown blues with an exclusive new exhibition by one of Australia’s most recognised and much loved artists, Ken Done. Titled “Up to 80” the exhibition brings together a vivid collection of works completed by Done in the last two decades.
Known for his vibrant and colourful depictions of iconic Australian scenes from Sydney Harbour and sun-drenched beaches to tropical coral reefs and the Outback, Done captures the essence of how it feels to be Australian.
“My paintings are quite unashamedly a response to the great joy of living in Australia,” Done said.
Done held his first exhibition at the age of 40, and since then, he has held more than 100 solo shows, including major exhibitions in Australia, Europe, Japan and the USA. His works have been displayed in the Archibald, Sulman, Wynne, Blake, and Dobell Prizes.
Now at the age of 81 with no plans to retire, he continues to work with the same passion and vigour, working from his idyllic harbourside studio “the cabin” at Chinamans Beach in Sydney.
Gallery Director Susi Muddiman OAM said, “We are delighted to host this exhibition of beautiful work by iconic and well-loved Australian artist Ken Done.”
“This exhibition will represent many of the artist’s favourite and best-loved subjects, and I am certain the colourful and fun works will bring joy to our visitors – something we all need a bit of right now.”
Tweed Regional Art Gallery is one of the most picturesque regional galleries in Australia, with sweeping hinterland views toward Wollumbin Mt Warning and a must-do when visiting The Tweed. Nearby, the new dining destination Tweed River House (pictured below) offers the perfect post gallery long lunch.
Ken Done: Up to 80 is now showing at Tweed Regional Art Gallery and Margaret Olley Centre from Friday 1 October to Sunday 28 November 2021. Plan an art-inspired getaway in the Tweed with a stay at accommodation from our handpicked collection of Tweed accommodation.
