Lee Wise

Celebrated artist, Lee Wise, is having his only Australian show at the Brisbane Modern Art Gallery from 18 – 29 August.

The artist, with his portraits and landscapes in evocative muted hues, has had some amazing success, including being a Finalist in the Archibald Prize with a self-portrait called Light of Life selected for the Salon des Refusés – an alternative selection of works that are displayed at the S.H. Ervin Gallery in Sydney.

It’s not the first time Wise has been a finalist in the prestigious competition, with his 2014 entry, a portrait of Michael Zavros, also qualifying. He also has a host of other awards to his credit – being awarded Winner Adelaide Perry Drawing Prize, Winner Cliftons Art Prize Brisbane, and Runner-up Moran Portrait Prize. At the time of writing, he’s a Finalist in the Brisbane Art Award and the Sunshine Coast Art Awards, with the results pending.

While his competition work is mainly portraiture, this solo exhibition sees him focus on landscapes, concentrating on those in the Springbrook area where he lives. His stunning landscapes, which often have a gloomy and wintery ambience, bring an alternative perspective of this country’s scenery – the result of Wise being born in Yorkshire and seeing his new home in a different way from many homegrown artists.

Says Wise of his highly acclaimed work: “Art for me is about communicating how I see things to others. I want the viewer to think about what they see and not just take it on face value . . .”

To see what all the fuss is about and to experience Lee Wise’s amazing creations in person, head along to the Brisbane Modern Art Gallery, where on Saturday, 22 August, from 2-5pm the artist will be in attendance.

Need to know - Prices for the artworks start at $1200 and are bound to increase dramatically in value as Wise’s star inevitably rises.

By Vicki Englund

Brisbane Modern Art Gallery is a valued sponsor of Must do Brisbane.com