OVER the last couple of days we were very privileged to have Townsville-based printmaker Ron McBurnie visit to conduct a workshop in Intaglio printing.
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Mr McBurnie is considered one of Australia’s most accomplished printmakers and the workshop included the techniques of drypoint, etching, roulette and mezzotint, with each participant completing their own plate and small printed edition.
This workshop was held in association with the gallery’s current exhibition Country and Western: landscape re-imagined, assembled by Perc Tucker Regional Gallery in Townsville.
This exhibition features depictions of the Australian landscape in a variety of mediums by some of the nation’s leading artists.
Among the works are two compelling etchings by McBurnie, Burning the leaves (1989) and Under the light of the hill (1997).
Both works show his mastery of the etching technique and his ability to manipulate light and shade to great effect.
In Burning the leaves, from his romantic series of 1989, the artist focusses on his surroundings – the tropical vegetation, a Queenslander style house and a man burning leaves in the backyard – but manages to imbue this with a heightened sense of drama as the smoke dissolves into the clouds.
Under the light of the hill presents a glowing nocturne and highlights the towering presence of Castle Hill, a 300-metre high rock formation that looms over Townsville.
The artist notes “Each night, spotlights illuminate the face giving it a primordial appearance. The houses … are typical of the Queensland-style building during the 1930s and 40s. Their inhabitants participate in a typical Queensland barbecue which takes place at night to avoid the intense heat of the day”.
McBurnie’s work is well-known for its narrative content and observations of his immediate environment, often with comic elements.
You may recall his print The professional dog show (1983) in our last exhibition – showing his Dalmatian cavorting amongst a group of model ‘show’ canines.
We hope you may have an opportunity to view the two McBurnie etchings in our current exhibition, which need to be seen up close to be fully appreciated.
For more information contact the gallery on 63938136 or visit www.org.nsw.gov.au
