Brett Whiteley's Self-Portraits: Art, Identity, and Personal Battles
And by doing so, artists like Brett allow us a rare peek inside their minds, their inner turmoil, things that they might struggle to say in words.
Brett Whiteley's self-portrait, 'Art, life and the other thing', isn't just a painting; it's a raw window into his soul. This episode dives into this iconic artwork that snagged the Archibald Prize in 1978. Fenella Kernebone leads the conversation, bringing together curator Anne Ryan, Whiteley's former wife Wendy Whiteley, and artists Mitch Cairns, David Griggs, and Natasha Walsh to dissect the layers of meaning behind the self-portrait.
Wendy shares intimate stories about Brett's experimental techniques and how his self-portraits were more than just images—they were performances. The episode doesn't shy away from tough topics either. It touches on Whiteley's mental health struggles and how these influenced his art and identity. By blending personal anecdotes with professional insights, this episode offers a multifaceted look at the man behind the canvas. If you're fascinated by how personal battles shape creative expression, this episode is a must-listen.