Скачать или смотреть Reflections on the collection—Rob McHaffie, winner of the 2014 Geelong contemporary art prize

On Friday 29 August 2014, Geelong Gallery announced Rob McHaffie as the recipient of the '2014 Geelong contemporary art prize' for his bright, colourful and whimsical painting, 'Preserve this fruit' (2013).

This award-winning work—the first by McHaffie to be acquired by the Geelong Gallery—depicts a singular figure of an elderly man in profile in a style reminiscent of Asian shadow puppets and temple paintings.

McHaffie constructs an imaginary narrative between this elderly gentleman—representative of traditional Thai life—and the silk entrepreneur Jim Thompson, who in the years after the Second World War, reinvigorated the Thai silk industry.

This video explores Rob McHaffie's artistic practice and the intentions behind his award-winning painting whilst also hearing from two of the co-judges, Geoffrey Edwards (Director, Geelong Gallery) and Lisa Sullivan (Curator, Geelong Gallery).

Geelong Gallery gratefully acknowledges the assistance of Bayside City Council’s Artist in Residence program at Billilla Mansion Studios and, in particular, Mark Potter (Cultural Development Officer).

We would also like to warmly thank the following people for their involvement and support throughout the making of this film: Rob McHaffie (artist), Ross Bird (videographer) and Jesse Marlow (stills photographer).

The '2014 Geelong contemporary art prize' showcases the best of contemporary Australian painting practice. This $30,000 acquisitive painting award and biennial exhibition features over 40 works by some of Australia’s leading and emerging artists. On display at the Geelong Gallery until 23 November 2014.