Bernini’s genius is revealed in Getty exhibition

Portrait busts and drawings from 17th century sculpture are impressively lifelike.

NOTHING would seem more dull than an exhibition of portrait busts, those stone-faced dust-catchers representing obscure generals, long-dead clergymen, government functionaries and preening aristocrats that one sometimes encounters tucked away in museum hallways or lobbies but rarely in prominent galleries for painting and sculpture. Typically, the sitter’s wearisome vanity outdistances the artist’s skill with a chisel and a drill.

But then there is Bernini — Gian Lorenzo Bernini (1598-1680), the brilliant and prolific sculptor, architect and painter who more or less invented Italian Baroque art. Along the way he also transformed the dreary portrait bust, a tradition largely inert since ancient Rome.

Read more: Bernini’s genius is revealed in Getty exhibition

Artist opens up his cupboard

DANIEL BOURCHIER

ONE of the Territory’s top artists is displaying part of his diverse art collection and the one-offs and collectables are for sale.

Franck Gohier is showcasing 120 works which include paintings, posters, prints, Aboriginal works, watercolours, photographs, crafts and sculptures.

“I suppose it is a reflection of the diversity of art I am interested in personally,” he said.

“I never stick to one thing for very long.”

Gohier said his collection takes a break from the description of “contemporary” works which are often far from it.

“I find a lot of contemporary art is soulless, cold and boring,” he said. “These works are by people who love creating.”

Gohier said his collection has a very international flavour.

Read more: Artist opens up his cupboard