The Big Book of Little Art Essays

As an art lover, there is nothing more exciting and rewarding than stepping into a gallery and immersing yourself in the world of an artist’s original creations. The unique concepts, rich colours and emotions generated have the power to transport us to another place, another time. But what if we could delve deeper into the artist’s mind, to truly understand the intentions and motivations behind their work? 

In this book, we have curated a collection of short, thought-provoking essays written over the last ten years of exhibitions at Flinders Lane Gallery, by some of Australia’s most notable arts writers, each one examining a specific artist’s exhibition and offering an intimate exploration of the artists’ practices and the evolution of their work. 

Commissioning writers who possess a deep understanding of art history, techniques, and the context in which an artist created their work results in essays that provide comprehensive and insightful analyses of an artist’s work. They shed light on the nuances, symbolism, and influences that may not be immediately apparent to the casual observer. The writers help to place the artist’s work within the broader cultural, social, and historical context. This contextualisation aids us as viewers to connect with the art on a deeper level, understanding how it reflects and responds to the world in which it was created.

As Director of Flinders Lane Gallery I have curated all 110 exhibitions featured in this book. I have a deeply personal connection with these immensely talented artists and a huge appreciation for the mental and physical work that is required to present a body of work for the exhibition. This series of exhibitions showcases a remarkable consistency and progression in the artists’ practices. 

In these essays, we witness the development of these artists. We see how their techniques evolve, their ideas expand, and how each exhibition becomes a stepping-stone on their creative journey. With 36 artists represented in this collection, each essay presents a unique perspective on each of their exhibitions and investigates the impact it has on both the artist and the viewer. We are given an additional insight into the diverse and vibrant world of contemporary art.

However, this book is not simply a collection of essays, but is a testament to the power of art to ignite conversation, provoke thought and, ultimately, connect with us on a deeper level. Through the pages of this book, I invite you to embark on a journey of discovery, to engage with the beautiful, the thought-provoking and the transformative. Whether you are an art aficionado seeking to deepen your understanding or a newcomer to the world of art looking for inspiration, you will find something to captivate and challenge you within these pages.

Join us as we delve into the minds of these talented artists, exploring their exhibitions, unravelling their intentions, and uncovering the stories behind their masterpieces. I hope these essays inspire you to view art in a different light, to appreciate its complexities and to embrace the profound impact it can have on our lives.

Claire Harris
Director