Anne Ross: Whichway
Exhibition: 8 July - 27 August
Bayside Gallery is set to welcome its next exhibition Anne Ross: Whichway, presenting bronze creations by nationally recognized local artist, Anne Ross, from 8 July to 27 August 2023.
For over four decades, Anne Ross has explored pathos and humour within the themes of companionship, belonging and self-containment through the medium of bronze.
This first ever major survey of representational sculpture illustrates Ross’ preoccupation with the human and animal form, revealing her interest in key iconography such as dogs, trees, frames, arrows and her ongoing engagement with symbolism and dreamlike imagery. Comprising more than 40 works in bronze dating from the mid-1990s to the present, Whichway demonstrates Ross’ major achievements working in patinated cast bronze sculpture.
Bayside-based Ross is best known for her public art commissions internationally and throughout Australia, including the much-loved sculpture of a dog titled Summertime, which overlooks the dog beach in Brighton.
Ross’ fascination with what she calls ‘humanhood’ and the relational dynamics between people and animals is a key theme that runs throughout her practice. Using devices such as twinship, masking, anthropomorphism and interspecies symbolism to reflect on identity and the human condition, she imbues the narrative potential of her sculpture with a comical sensibility and a deep sense of emotion.
Cr Mayor Hanna El Mouallem said this exhibition is sure to be popular among residents given the admiration of the Summertime sculpture at Brighton’s dog beach and the artist’s local connection.
“Anne Ross is well-admired for her sculptures, and we are pleased to welcome her own exhibition at Bayside Gallery and the gardens at Billilla,” said El Mouallem.
“Public art plays an important role in our community by injecting life, spirit and artistic expression into our municipality, and Ross has created one of Bayside’s most loved public artworks.”
Ross will also have a sculpture in the gardens at Billilla Historical Mansion, featuring a three-part sculpture titled She gave me a daisy (2003-23) as part of her solo exhibition at Bayside Gallery. This work will be on loan to Bayside City Council for the remainder of the year.
