A Show of Three Graces
Grace Paleg
Long Gallery
20 December 2023 - 14 January 2024
OPENING EVENT: Thursday 21st December 6:30pm - 8:30pm
All welcome, free event; RSVP essential
I had early on in my career painted entirely “what I see” within an average view finder. Not so much now! Along with my framer we designed a moveable view finder that allows more than the eye can see depending on where you hold it to your eye.
I have taken to constructing my landscapes into the visually impossible but they are not initially obviously impossible. I continue to make discoveries about how I can extend beyond what is humanely possible to observe into an image that is feasible and acceptable to the viewer of the work. Hence the impossible , showing a scene that explains more than 180 degrees can become plausible. The hero work of the show ,which turned out to be the most detailed work of my career, was created with the help of about 40 photographs taken from the 84th story of the Eureka Towers.
I had already discovered that looking down on a still life when using a view finder which equates to the frame of the finished work, the only vertical is seen in the centre of your vision. Anything vertical seen peripherally leans out toward the viewfinder. We don’t observe this lean in our everyday observation. We automatically observe it as straight because when you focus on it is always straight. The close ups of Melbourne had the buildings leaning out like a bunch of flowers. I needed to straighten them all to fool you into believing that this scene is possible. And because of this you are looking in two direction much like an eagle or an artist.
My mantra - “see the light by using the sight”.
- Grace Paleg, 2023
Grace Paleg, Naarm - more than meets the eye, soft pastel, 85 cm x 98cm
Artist Bio:
With over 50 years of rich experience, Grace Paleg’s artistic journey began with a foundation in Graphic Design at Swinburne, complemented by the profound insights gained from studying oils under artists Allan Martin, David Moore, and Lesley Sinclair at Montsalvat in Victoria.
In 1988, a transformative shift to pastel marked a pivotal moment in Grace's artistic evolution, altering the trajectory of her creative expression. This shift laid the groundwork for a dynamic and enduring practice.
Venturing into the realm of education in 1991, Grace's commitment to sharing her knowledge led to the establishment of The Grace Paleg Fine Art Studio Gallery in 1995, nestled in the scenic beauty of Batemans Bay.
Beyond the confines of her studio, Grace's influence extends as she traverses the artistic landscape, conducting workshops and gracing Art Festivals.
Paleg’s accolades are diverse, with a collection of over 200 prizes. Her leadership extends beyond the canvas, as she proudly served as the Past President of the South Coast Pastel Society, contributing to the vibrancy of the artistic community. A prolific writer, Grace's insights find a home in art magazines both nationally and internationally.
Grace Paleg, an artist, educator, and perpetual seeker of creative excellence, invites you to immerse yourself in her artistic legacy in A Show of Three Graces.
Image: Grace Paleg - with a work in progress
Grace Paleg, Tree Dahlias on Mirror 2023, soft pastel, 90cm x 106 cm
Grace Paleg, The Three Graces, soft pastel, 102cm x 92 cm