Artist takes off on New Expressions

By Paul Pickering
UPWEY’S Philip Hodson says he has always been a frustrated artist and that it is only in retirement that he has found his artistic voice.
In his new solo exhibition at Belgrave’s Tilt Contemporary Art gallery, Mr Hodson unveils a collection of textured landscapes painted over a three-year period of extraordinary productivity.
Mr Hodson says that while he has always had a passion for painting, retirement has provided the time to focus on his work.
“I always knew what I wanted to do but didn’t know how to do it,” he said.
“In recent times I’ve been able to zoom in on work that expresses where I am at.”
The exhibition – aptly titled New Expressions – introduces a fresh contour to the Australian landscape tradition, as Mr Hodson focuses on looking into the landscape rather than over it.
“I love the unruly nature of the Australian bush,” he said.
“With its almost abstract look, it is unlike the more uniformed look of the landscape of the European scene and elsewhere.”
Mr Hodson has lived in Upwey for 30 years and describes the Dandenong Ranges as “a constant visual delight”.
The colours and textures of his paintings are informed by the region’s unique terrain and flora.
Tilt gallery manager Manfred Krautschneider says Mr Hodson’s work has flourished since a revelation three years ago.
“Suddenly, he realised the potential for abstraction in the landscape,” Mr Krautschneider said.
“These colourful and dynamic expressions resonate for anyone who has ever been touched by the bush.”
Mr Hodson, who has worked as a truck driver, welder and factory worker, now spends much of his days painting in his garage – recently converted into a home studio.
New Expressions will run from Thursday, 19 July until Sunday, 12 August.
The official opening will begin at 4pm on Saturday, 21 July.
Tilt is located in Belgrave Arcade, 1647 Burwood Highway, Belgrave.