Brian Richard Taylor

I make art, it’s what I do. I recall drawing on a bed head at age about two. have been awarded a number of awards for my work in West Aust, South Aust, NSW and Victoria. Plus, my works can be found in private collections in collections at USA, England, Scotland, South Africa and several other nations. Additionally, I believe in Sergeants Messes worldwide.

My first solo exhibition was in 1969 and almost sold out at “Cremorne Gallery’. Since then, I have tried to produce a solo showing every four or five years. Sometimes with difficulty due to PTSD problems resulting from two tours of Viet Nam, being involved in the “Tet Offensive”. Fortunately, art production is a splendid therapy for such disabilities.

However, the years are taking their toll and on reflection, at the age of ninety-one years and as not nimble nor as productive as in bygone days, I’ve had to accept the evidence which suggests that sadly this will be my last solo showing .

Over the years I have dabbled in many assorted styles, fads and fashions. I even spent several years painting in Dulux, achieving some success. But all the exploration was non-satisfactory as it was not “ME” and had no soul because these works were created compliant to rules dictated by devious artisans, art advisers and misguided academics. I endorse Napolean’s view that “rules are for the guidance of wise men and the blind obedience of fools!” I have endeavoured to share memories of a lifetime’s sensations, emotions, the people and places I’ve experienced, good and bad. As a boy, I was struck by ‘Punch and Judy’, but I confused Punch with Harlequin who would

be better named ‘Iago’. I’m sure most people have met this type of villain! If not, find him in my work.

As an adolescent, I roamed the bush around Kalamunda, Lesmurdie, Helena Valley and Piesie Brook. I chose a number of secret nooks where-in I could lie down, doze and listen to the rustle of foliage and the babble of running water. I could also hear the chatter of the resident imps, nymphs and thicket spirits. This company is also mentioned in my work.

You too can have such experiences if you lay down, alone in the warm spring sunshine, close your eyes and doze and listen to the chatter all around you.

HOMEMAKER

Oil on canvas 90 x 70 cm

SPRINGTIME

Oil on canvas 61 x 51 cm

HARLEQUIN INCOGNITO

Oil on canvas 75 x 60 cm

EYE IN THE SKY

Oil on canvas 60 x 50 cm