Brand New (1994)



Synthetic polymer paint on canvas, 203 x 153
Private collection, Melbourne

First exhibited in Arkley’s ‘Pointillist Suburb’ show (Tolarno, Nov.1994), this work typifies the barrage of pattern and optical effects deployed in this brilliant series of images. In the process, the ordinary suburban subjects involved are radically transformed (for detailed discussion along these lines, see my Carnival in Suburbia, 2006, pp.73-77).

Previous indications in this catalogue entry suggested incorrectly that this painting may be identical with Brand New Villa 1994, exhibited in Arkley’s solo show at Bellas Gallery, Brisbane, in May-June 1994. However, that painting has since been established as a different, monochrome canvas: refer the relevant entry for further details.

Provenance

  • Sold through Tolarno in 1994 for $10,000 (HA stock-book 1993-6)
  • Recorded in P/C Melb. in NGVA Arkley retrospective planning notes c.2006

Exhibited

  • HA Tolarno 11/94 (‘Pointillist Suburb series’), cat.8
  • HA retrospective 2006-7 (Melbourne only)

Literature

  • Pickett 1997: 122 (ill.)