Ross Watson’s new series of paintings, Introduced Species, explores the dual issues of the environment, and the isolation experienced by same-sex attracted youth in rural Australia.
Ross Watson, Introduced Species #01
Watson’s travels through the Kimberley, and knowledge of the continuing high levels of suicide affecting same-sex attracted youth, inspired this series - a significant departure for his art.
“My subjects are now anonymous, strangely alien to their environment, trying to fit in, but ultimately remaining foreign,” the internationally-collected artist says of his latest work.
Melbourne’s Gay and Lesbian Switchboard will receive a $100 donation from every large edition print of Introduced Species #3 sold from the exhibition.
INTRODUCED SPECIES by ROSS WATSON @ Ross Watson Gallery, 465 Nicholson Street, Carlton North, August 9 – 24. Opening hours: Saturday – Sunday 11am – 5pm, other times by appointment. www.rosswatson.com
Having just moved to FNQ, and living in the metropolis of Townsville, I’m amazed at the underlying homophobia, (after all this was Ian Roberts territory). From bricks through gay bar windows, to bashing in the "fag friendly" club in town, to blatant homophobic comments in lectures in the esteemed James Cook university. The isolation of rural and regional youth is glaringly apparent when you’re out here. Beautiful art, worthwhile issue, put the spotlight on it.
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