Deutscher and Hackett

Within the luscious paintings of Dale Frank layers of pigmented varnish form delicate pools and rivulets. Across continuous hours the artist tilts and carefully manipulates the canvas, to slowly redirect or coalesce the poured varnish. The result is exquisite and expansive works that embody both the physical maneuverings and contemplation inherent within their creation.

The present work, titled All of it left him swinging swaying like a giant bug eyed grasshopper brings together glossy streaks and expanses of royal purple and golden yellows amidst atmospheric pools of muted blues. The painting's surface reveals the varied accumulations of these dispersed stratified colours; that produce a sense of colliding and overlapping territories, yet in their totality form a cohesive and commanding visual statement. There is an honest majesty within this painting which balances as both true abstraction and evocative landscape.

The witty and frequently lengthy titles of many of these paintings indicate the confidence and lightness of touch Dale Frank has found during decades of international and local success. In 1984 Frank was included in the Aperto at the 42nd Venice Biennale and in 2000 a survey exhibition of his work was held at The Museum of Contemporary Art, Sydney titled Ecstasy: 20 Years of Painting. In 2010 he exhibited in the 17th Biennale of Sydney and in 2013 in the group exhibition Personal Structure at the Palazzo Bembo, as part of the Collatoral Program of the 55th Venice Biennale. In 2005 Frank won the Arthur Guy Memorial Painting Prize at the Bendigo Art Gallery, Victoria. Frank's work is represented in major public collections including the National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, Queensland Art Gallery, Brisbane, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney, and in numerous important private and corporate collections around the world.

AMY MARJORAM

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