Gerringong artist Gitte Backhausen is among 10 Australian female artist currently exhibiting in the group exhibition ‘Pigments at Play’ at the prestigious Rochfort Gallery in North Sydney until July 29.
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Founded by Lisa Rochfort, former creative director of both Faberge and Fairfax and Roberts in Sydney, Rochfort Gallery is an exhibition hall unlike any other, reminiscent of the grand exhibition halls of the 1900s.
The world class gallery, with soaring ceilings and exquisite natural light, is an experience in itself.
“It is an honour to exhibit alongside 10 of Australia’s prominent female abstract artists, including award winning Dana Dion, Leah Thiessen and Joanne Duffy, in such a beautiful gallery. It is truly a show not to be missed,” Backhausen said.
Backhausen and her partner moved to Gerringong in late 2015. She holds regular solo and group exhibitions, runs workshops and is a keen contributor to the arts community on the South Coast.
“It has been both life and career changing for me to move to the South Coast. I am grateful to be part of this supportive and talented arts community,” she said.
Always an abstract painter, Backhausen’s work continues to develop and is moving more towards abstracted landscapes.
“I’d refer to my paintings as subconscious abstract landscapes,” she said.
“I don’t plan them or even imagine them before they appear. I allow my subconscious to express itself through paint, mark making and letting the process itself direct me.
“As the title of my most popular workshop states ‘I get out of my mind and into my art’.”
With an educational background in applied social science, working in mental health and career coaching, Backhausen has always had an interest in human behaviour and psychology. Having put that career path behind her, it is evident this is a big part of who she is.
“By nature I am reflective – I observe and question the world and our roles in it,” she said.
“The artworks allow for quiet contemplation and wild rides, tapping into memories and letting the subconscious creative colourful landscapes and new questions.
“I am the curious observer – honouring the drive that continues to pull me forward to explore this bizarre and wondrous world we live in.”
You can see more and sign up for news on Gitte’s website www.gittebackhausen.art and follow her on Instagram and Facebook @gittebackhausenart.
The group exhibition ‘Pigments at Play’ is showing at Rochfort Gallery, 317 Pacific Highway, North Sydney, NSW 2060 until July 29 and open daily Monday to Friday 9am-5pm. Saturday and Sunday 10am-4pm.
