Welcome to The HobArchies 2020
Portraiture Exhibition.
The “HobArchies” is an opportunity to celebrate the art of Portraiture.
It is a new theme for the HBAS annual Spring Art Exhibition, concentrating only on portraiture
of both significant people in our lives and well-loved pets.
This year due to COVID-19 restrictions forcing the closure of our venue, we are presenting this exhibition online.
Proudly presented by Hobsons Bay Arts Society.
Artworks listed for sale can be purchased (Australian residents only) - Contact us via email to enquire.
Please note: All images of art work displayed on this website are subject to Copyright
Category winners and Judge Comments:
Comments from HobArchies Judges, Vicki McInnes and Ben Winspear
Ben Winspear and I worked together in deciding which pictures to select for awards. Where in normal times, we would view pictures hanging in a gallery space, instead we discussed entries by phone, referring to the images on our screens. We were both impressed by the quality of the entries, and moved by the choice of subjects
and the work every artist has put into their portrait.
Important considerations in evaluating each work are the skill with which a medium is used, composition, use of tone and colour, and the quality of observation and the expression with which the subject is described.
Portraits will tell us not only about the subject, but also about how the artist wants us to see the subject. The artist is a filter - adding feeling to a portrait. This is particularly important when a photograph is used as a reference. Usually the size of a work and its presentation, that is, the style and quality of framing, are taken into account... but not this time.
Ben Winspear and I worked together in deciding which pictures to select for awards. Where in normal times, we would view pictures hanging in a gallery space, instead we discussed entries by phone, referring to the images on our screens. We were both impressed by the quality of the entries, and moved by the choice of subjects
and the work every artist has put into their portrait.
Important considerations in evaluating each work are the skill with which a medium is used, composition, use of tone and colour, and the quality of observation and the expression with which the subject is described.
Portraits will tell us not only about the subject, but also about how the artist wants us to see the subject. The artist is a filter - adding feeling to a portrait. This is particularly important when a photograph is used as a reference. Usually the size of a work and its presentation, that is, the style and quality of framing, are taken into account... but not this time.
Best in Show (Both categories combined)
Michelle Tirman - My Mom the Formidable Odette
This work has a boldness of composition and use of colour, bringing the subject to life. In a wheelchair, she is set low in the picture space, and off-centre, looking upwards at the viewer with a bright expression. The mass of the black hat sits in contrast to the pale tones used on the face, the yellow of the subject’s outfit works against the blue ground, the curve of shoulders echoing the curve of the hat. Paint is applied skillfully and confidently with carefully observed detail added using linework,
inviting us to look a little more closely.
Second Place Prize: Human Category
Judith Jones - Dad #2
A simple composition, at first glance simply done. The paint tones and colours are used with careful observation and applied with confidence and ability. The happy demeanour and gaze of the subject are captured, and engage the viewer.
Third Place Prize: Human Category.
Linda - Jonathan Dudley
This pastel portrait uses vibrant colour giving the subject energy and presence. Colours are used with an awareness of tone: using green as a flesh tone to model the face, swirls of darker tones on dark paper as a background to frame the face.
Second Place Prize: Pet Category.
Anah Creet - Pompom
This is a charming drawing, with the chicken comfortable in the arms of its owner. Pencil is used lightly, the composition remiscent of the angelics of Mirka Mora, and conveys a quiet happiness.
Second Place Prize: Pet Category.
Anah Creet - Pompom
This is a charming drawing, with the chicken comfortable in the arms of its owner. Pencil is used lightly, the composition remiscent of the angelics of Mirka Mora, and conveys a quiet happiness.
Third Place Prize: Pet Category
Ivana Pinaffo - Our Family Pet
Paint is applied expressively, with an interplay of the dog’s coat and background. The pale collie eyes engage us – asking us to stare right back into them. The dash of yellow in the bandana works well with the dominant blue, black and white.
Highly Commended - Both Categories:
Joshua Griffin - Anthony Sell OAM
Carefully composed with the light source working to highlight the face and hands as well as elements of the room. Brushwork is confident and there are some engaging moments of still life, which tell us of the subject’s interests and tastes.
Janet Pagan - Ted
The play of sunlight on the face and hat are well observed, telling us that this is a man to be found outdoors. The ladder adds to this description, and also works to balance the figure in the composition.
Franciska Howard - Brucie
Light pours into this picture, onto the chair chosen by the cat. A wide-eyed gaze holds us, typical of a cat who is sure of its place. Tones are well observed, with light and dark on fur well managed.
Philip Richards - Jessie
Quirky and expressive, with confident but carefully applied brushmarks. Linework added gives detail and texture. We are told a lot about this dog’s character.
Congratulations to all our winners and many thanks to all the HBAS members who have participated this year. The standard of entries, as always, is both diverse in approach and of an excellent standard. We hope you enjoy looking at our 2020 Virtual Spring Exhibition!
The HBAS Committee.
The HBAS Committee.
