FOREWORD TO AUSTRALIA DAY 2025
Australian art holds a distinct voice in the global conversation, rooted in an inherent sense of place and a deep connection to its diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. From the rich traditions of First Nations art to the contemporary practices of our nation’s painters, sculptors, and creatives, Australian art captures the essence of resilience, curiosity, and storytelling. It is art that is inherently tied to the land but simultaneously extends beyond its borders, resonating with audiences worldwide.
This exhibition, presented in collaboration with the High Commission of Australia, exemplifies the power of cultural diplomacy. Embassies and high commissions offer extraordinary opportunities to showcase the talent of their citizens on the world stage. They remind us of the art's essential role in fostering dialogue, building relationships, and illuminating the nuances of identity. Through exhibitions like this, we not only celebrate artistic achievement but also engage in cultural exchange that enriches and inspires both artist and audience alike.
As co-curators Amanda J Lay and Hester Baldwin, we are honoured to present the works of four exceptional Australian artists: Robert Maclaurin, Brooke Fitzsimons, Susanna Robinson, and Jane Dickins. Each of these artists brings a unique vision to the exhibition, offering distinct perspectives on themes ranging from the Australian landscape's beauty and complexity to deeply personal explorations of identity, memory, and connection.
Robert Maclaurin’s evocative landscapes capture the vast, almost otherworldly expanses of the Australian terrain, evoking its raw power and serene beauty. Brooke Fitzsimons’ works explore textures and forms that invite contemplation, while Susanna Robinson brings a sensitive and introspective lens to themes of nature and humanity. Jane Dickins’ pieces speak to the dynamic interplay between abstraction and representation, offering the viewer a fresh perspective on the familiar. These artists provide a compelling snapshot of contemporary Australian art, demonstrating its depth, diversity, and dynamism.
The curatorial process has been a truly collaborative endeavour, enriched by Amanda J. Lay’s experience and unique perspective as an Australian who has lived and worked as a gallerist, primarily representing Australian artists in the United Kingdom for over 40 years. Hester’s insight into the intersections of cultural identity and artistic expression has added an outsider’s perspective invaluably adding to the curatorial process. This collaboration mirrors the themes at the heart of the works we are presenting: a dialogue between place, perspective, and the universal language of creativity.
We hope that this exhibition not only introduces you to the remarkable talent of these Australian artists but also invites you to reflect on the broader role that art plays in connecting us to each other and to the world. It is a celebration of the talent, innovation, and imagination that defines Australian art, and it is an honour to share it with you in this unique and meaningful space.
Hester Baldwin & Amanda J Lay, 2025.
