Articles by Sonali

‘Outer Circle’ examines the work of the Boyds, Australia’s most distinguished creative dynasty, consisting of several painters, studio potters and a writer, Martin Boyd, author of ‘A Difficult Young Man’ (1955). In 1913 Arthur Merric and his wife Emma moved to the Melbourne suburb of Murrumbeena. Their weatherboard property named ‘Open Country’ was home to numerous generations of Boyds; a pottery studio was built on surrounding land.

The exhibition focuses on family prodigy Arthur (born in 1920 and a 3^rd generation Boyd). But with a selection of accomplished paintings inspired by the Australian landscape, or grim, nightmarish scenes depicting the Second World War, by various family members and friends. The colourful post war pictures of the Melbourne coastline painted by Arthur Boyd and brother-in-law John Perceval are a highlight. Arthur and his father Merric produced ceramic figurines of native Australian animals and decorative plates at ‘Open Country’, positioned here near the paintings, creating a stunning juxtaposition. This is an informative reflection on a warm and interesting family, underpinning a notable artistic community.

Until 9 March 2015 at NGV Australia Level 2 Melbourne