CONTEMPORARY ART STOCKROOM Ken Smith

Beach 2, (speedboat) 2022, acrylic on paper, framed, 96cm x 64cm (framed size 118 x 86 cm)

The experience and representation of the horizon, specifically in my case the division between sea and sky in maritime environments, has long been a core stimulus for my imagery. This began when as a very young child I travelled to and from the UK by ship with my mother. Watching from the sterns of these vessels as their wakes disappeared towards the sea horizon are some of my most powerful and persistent early memories. Spending much leisure time as an adolescent sailing on Port Phillip Bay strengthened this fascination with the marine horizon for the sailor must keep an eye constantly alert to changes in wind speed and direction evident there. Later adult investigation of the constantly changing colours of this fundamental division has further enhanced my awareness of both its persistence and mutability. The physical phenomena of water and air and the emotional mystery of their presence as the distant sea horizon; poetically evoked as - the offing - all find expression in my works in this exhibition.