Welcome to our first newsletter!

Since launching last month in excess of 20,000 individuals globally have visited Top100Artists, and our audience continues to grow. It is wonderful news, and confirms our firmly held belief in the depth and appreciation of new Australian art. And while the task of narrowing our Top100Artists was far from easy, it was only the first step in our mission. As artists, commentators, gallerists and collectors we live and breathe art, and are steadfastly committed to promoting new Australian art. You may embrace our approach or raise your hands in frustration and shout at our choices - among other things, but it is exactly the conversation that follows which propels us all forward as one.

So, let's get started.

A reminder of 'who we are'

The idea for a rolling list of the top 100 living Australian artists from across the spectrum, diverse in age, style, reputation and their use of media to ground a debate on the future of the art market and all it provides was born in a local Hobart pub by an equally diverse group of artists, academics, gallerists and raconteurs over many a shared beer, cider, wine and belly tickling good laugh. For a multitude of good reasons, not least to ensure the spotlight remains on the artists, we choose to be anonymous, to all but the publican.

What we’re up to

Many of the artists listed in our top 100 and many of those that were not, their representing galleries, friends, family, art prize jurists, writers and rusted on supporters have celebrated and shared our Top100Artists list far and wide across social media and elsewhere. We couldn't have hoped for more. So here, adding to the mix, is our monthly update - an independent insight we believe into some of the 'best of the best' artists showcasing their work today.
 

UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS

BEN AITKEN, 'BLUNDSTONE ENEMA'

25 November 2022 @ProduceGallery, Melbourne

A painter who keeps painting self portraits may seem narcissistic or overly self-involved but there are more often other reasons for such persistent self portraiture. Mainly it is a visual form of journaling. In the case of Melbourne artist Ben Aitken, his extraordinary paintings are often starkly autobiographical, his figure contorted or artistically minimised on large scale canvases. The artist's latest work continues his journey, portraying his bareknuckled inquiry into his self, how he feels about himself, feeling his way and questioning who he is at this point of his life.

To know Ben Aitken is to appreciate the Herculean struggles this artist has faced, his brutal, honest battle with mental health, and his renewed determination to overcome all life seems determined to throw at him. But Aitken seeks no sympathy. His art speaks for him of his recent struggles, without a hint of self-pity, leaving the viewer simply in awe. One walks away from viewing his latest work only liking this artist with whom we feel instantly and intimately connected, and knowing his future is a bright one.

This exhibition is a must-see. Details at Produce Gallery

Ben Aitken, 'Alcoholic as a young boy' (2022), Ink and epoxy resin on canvas. Image by the artist.

VIPOO SRIVILASA, 'ALWAYS BETTER TOGETHER'

30 Nov - 17 Dec @OlsenGallery, Sydney

Vipoo Srivilasa is a Thai-born artist living and working in Melbourne known for his enigmatic and intricate porcelain sculptures. His latest body of work travels carefully to Sydney for his new show at Olsen Gallery, opening on 30 November, and will no doubt sell fast with serious collectors and institutions around the world long coveting this artist's work. But this shouldn't stop you popping into this landmark Paddington gallery to experience Srivilasa's sculptures. In the words of Barry Humphries mother reported consoling her young son Barry on being pulled along to see the ageing British comedian Tony Hancock, 'At least you can say you saw him'. And while Vipoo has a long career ahead of him, he too is worth seeing, and where you too will be able to boast that you too have seen Srivilasa's work firsthand.

If you find yourself in Sydney, then this exhibition too is a must-see. Details at Olsen Gallery

Our pick of upcoming exhibitions ...

Dagmar Cyrulla: 'End of a Chapter', 4 November - 24 November 2022 @WagnerContemporary, Sydney

Maximilian Daniels, Kudditji Kngwarr-Eye, Annalisa Ferraris, 'Edge', 29 November - 23 December 2022 @MitchellFineArtGallery, Brisbane

Deb McKay, 7 November - 16 December 2022 @HillSmithArtAdvisory, Adelaide

David Keeling, 'Up Early', 28 October - 19 November 2022 @bettgallery, Hobart

Caroline, Rannersberger, 13 January - 4 February 2022 @bettgallery, Hobart

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