Gumma artist thrives during Bundanon residence Nambucca Valley Nambucca Valley - popup ad by News Of The Area - Modern Media - November 24, 2024 Edward Barns loves to boldly stylise animals. GUMMA artist Edward Barns recently returned from a week-long residency with the prestigious Bundanon Artists in Residence program, funded by Accessible Arts. The residency was held at the Bundanon gallery and museum complex on the banks of the Shoalhaven River near Nowra. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au Edward was one of five artists with a disability selected from NSW and the ACT. During his residency, Edward created three large and six smaller paintings, drawing inspiration from the vibrant natural environment rich with local wildlife, including wombats, kangaroos, butterflies, birds, and diverse plant life. Exploring new techniques, he worked with larger brushes and referenced his own photographs taken on-site, capturing the unique spirit of the area. “I had a great time,” Edward said. “I painted lots of animals… I made new friends and saw Arthur Boyd’s studio which was pretty cool.” Edward embraced collaborative experiences with fellow artists, and relished exploring the Bundanon Gallery, where he viewed the “Bagan Bariwariganyan: Echoes of Country” exhibition and the renowned Arthur Boyd collection. He also visited Boyd’s studio, gaining insights into the iconic Australian painter’s artistic process and viewing his final works. In addition, Edward walked along the Shoalhaven River, immersed in the landscape Boyd immortalised in many of his iconic paintings. He was supported on the trip by Jack Hodges from Nambucca Valley Phoenix. “Bundanon was a rewarding and heartening experience,” Jack said. “I was happy to support Ed to undertake the Bundanon residency that gave him the inspiration of different animals and landscape, the opportunity to express himself freely, and to meet new artists in a communal and collegial setting.” Edward is part of the “Artists in Action” collective which runs out of Phoenix School of Arts in Bowraville. His unique style is characterised by the use of bright colours, bold outlines and thick brushstrokes. He excels in confident, imaginative drawings. Edward will be taking part in the upcoming “Colour Matters” exhibition which opens at 2pm on Saturday 30 November at the Phoenix Gallery. By Kim SATCHELL Edward enjoyed the collegial and communal setting at Bundanon. Edward hard at work at Bundanon.
