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ARTIST’S STATEMENT
…from Keith Haring to van Gogh to
Pablo Neruda…
“Since attending a small, independent art
school in the late 80’s, I have exhibited my work in numerous group
& solo shows throughout NZ Australia.
In the early 90’s (in one of my first group
shows), my larger-than-life cartoon murals hung along-side New Zealand
war artist Peter McIntyre. Most of the larger scale art I produced during
this period was inspired by an exhibition by NewYork ‘Pop’
icon Keith Haring. I loved his colours, intensity & (often brutal)
honesty… And the way he took art out of the galleries & back
to the people. I was also very inspired by his on-going work with children.
I remember one of my fellow art-students commenting on my giant cartoons:
“They are like Colin McCahon – but with a sense of humour!!”
In late 1993, I traveled to Melbourne, Australia
to visit a Van Gogh exhibition. Returning home, my style of painting (and
how I applied it) dramatically changed – I no longer painted giant
cartoons, instead turning to elements of ‘impressionism’ (thanks
Vincent) & my growing fascination/love for the sea & nature. In
the late 90’s I began to incorporate sculptural components to these
pieces; attaching rocks & pebbles to the surface of the paint, and
adding original (unashamedly romantic) poetry & the odd watercolour
cartoon.
My most recent works have been bringing together
an eclectic blend of seascape, cartoon & word, but on a larger scale.
Themes include: celebrating my Nghi Tahu & Celtic ancestry; exploring
my lack of eyesight (and how this influences my methods & style);
and (since a life-changing adventure to Brazil) a new-found love
and appreciation for Latin-American visual art, music & literature.
It is my belief that ALL art (whether it be the
visual arts, music, dance, theatre, filmmaking - add your discipline here)
must contain within it a story or dialogue for its intended audience.
Storytelling is essential – it is passed down from generation to
generation and gives a universality & immediacy to the arts; allowing
it to be understood & appreciated in any language age
or culture.
Accept the challenge – Don’t be afraid
to tell your story!!! It is worth telling and is unique, exciting
& important for future generations to come...”
BRENT HARPUR, 2011.
“When art is young it slighteth nature – And when
old,
it loves her every feature!!” [Charles Harpur, 1813 - 1868.]
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All Titles, Paintings and Poetry ©
Brent M Harpur 2011.
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