Gareth Sansom: A Life in Art

Born in Melbourne, Australia, on November 19, 1939, Gareth Sansom is a highly respected Australian artist known for his eclectic paintings, printmaking, and collages. His work stands out for its bold colors, diverse allusions, and exploration of complex themes.

Early Life and Education

Sansom studied at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) from 1959 to 1964. He held his first solo exhibition in 1959, receiving early encouragement from Arthur Boyd who purchased a piece from the show. Following RMIT, he exhibited at South Yarra Gallery and Gallery A, with works being acquired by the National Gallery of Victoria and the Australian National Gallery respectively.

Artistic Development & Influences

Sansom is recognized as one of the first Australian artists to embrace Pop Art influences, particularly from British artists like Peter Blake, Allen Jones, Derek Boshier, and Joe Tilson. He also drew inspiration from the formal strategies of post-modernist R.B. Kitaj and, significantly, the work of British painter Francis Bacon. His close association with Brett Whiteley suggests a mutual artistic influence.

Key Characteristics & Themes

Sansom’s paintings are characterized by their eclectic nature, layering historical, cultural, and personal references. He often combines oils, enamels (sprayed and brushed), and collaged elements – including photographs and objects – into his compositions. His signature style includes visible earlier paint layers, juxtaposed hard-edge geometry with lyrical passages of color, and figurative ‘doodles’ at the margins.

Recurring themes in his work include:

• Mortality
• Ageing
• Sexual identity
• Popular and youth culture
• Cinema

Humor, Iconoclasm & Titles

A strong element of humor, iconoclasm, and irony permeates Sansom’s work. This is evident not only in the visual elements but also in his often provocative titles, such as ‘Art Can't Fart (for Rose Selavay)’, ‘Four Wise Men Looking for God in Abstract Art’, and ‘Dr Fu Manchu’s Death by Gyro’.

Major Achievements & Recognition

Throughout his career, Sansom has held numerous exhibitions and received significant recognition. He was awarded the prestigious John McCaughey Memorial Prize of $100,000 in 2008. His work is represented in major collections including:

• National Gallery of Australia
• National Gallery of Victoria
• Art Gallery of New South Wales
• Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
• The Mertz Collection

Historical Significance & Legacy

Gareth Sansom has had a distinct influence on subsequent Australian art. He paved the way for later notable artists such as Juan Davila and Howard Arkley, introducing new themes and subject matter into the Australian artistic landscape. His innovative approach to painting, combining diverse techniques and challenging conventional norms, continues to inspire contemporary artists.

From 1986-1991 Sansom was Dean of the School of Art at the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA), further cementing his role as a leading figure in Australian art education.