Brett Whiteley was an iconic and gifted artist. He attended the National Art School 1956-1959, later moving to London, he exhibited at the Whitechaple Gallery where his ‘Untitled Red’ painting was purchased by the Tate Gallery. He also painted extensively in Italy and America before moving back to Australia.

Matisse, Picasso and Bacon were influences on Whiteley, which can clearly be seen in his work and subject matter. Like Bacon, Whiteley played with the form, pushing and pulling to points of exaggeration.

Spanning a period from 1976-1978 he was twice winner of the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman prizes. Sadly his life ended suddenly in 1992 aged 53. Whiteley has left a lasting legacy within an allbeit short lifetime.