Gordon was born in 1952 in Hannover Germany. Raised in Sheffield England, he left to study Education in Nottingham in 1970, where his first forays in painting began. Whilst there he met and married Judith, a Melbournian, and moved to Australia in 1979. They both now reside in Ocean Grove, Victoria. Mainly working in acrylics and oils Gordon is drawn to abstract expressionism, however is still pulled back to recognisable forms. “It took a while before the realisation dawned in me that whilst we’re not as rich in architectural history as Europe, our history is in the land, in gum trees, vast landscapes which sing, hum and vibrate with a resonance hard to ignore.” This is beautifully expressed in the song ‘The Spirit’s in the Land’ by Archie Roach. The series I’m working on at the moment is entitled ‘Totem’ in reference to the life force in all manner of things, in this case gums. You may recognise a stained- glass similarity to these paintings heavily bordered by either white and black bringing into focus what we might easily miss whilst also honouring our indigenous past. My hope is that these paintings draw emotion and acknowledgement of the creation we are so blessed to be surrounded by. I’m inspired by the land and in particular gum trees and would not be at all disappointed if that is all I continue to paint.
Statement for Totem
Totem /ˈtəʊtəm/
Noun – 1 a natural object or animal that is believed by a particular society to have spiritual significance and that is adopted by it as an emblem.
The theme of discovery and exploration of the sacred in our ancient landscape is an ongoing and never-ending fascination. These natural Cathedrals and places of worth-ship provide gateways, not only into the land but also inward towards our identity and psyche. They hold a mirror up to us and quietly confront us. They bring healing and guidance if we allow ourselves to wander their pathways or sit in their company.
My inspiration comes mainly from memory of travels and some by recording through sketch and photograph.
A major theme is the use of white or black bold lines. These may help to focus on what we might otherwise miss. Natures stained – glass if you like, prompting us to take time and gaze at the light and colour of trees, hills and rocks shaped through millennia. We are here but for a moment, but one with the opportunity to see and feel and respond. ‘Totem’ is my response amongst the chorus of many others.
In these paintings, I want to acknowledge the first peoples of this land and pay respect to their elders and emerging leaders. It’s hard to be in this ancient landscape without hearing their voice, sensing their presence and connecting with their dreaming. My hope is that these paintings draw respect for them and an acknowledgement of the creation we are so blessed to be surrounded by.
