Untitled

The art of Louise Hearman is characterised by a deep visceral quality that connects with universal themes underpinned by intuition and instinct. It is not only Hearman's choice of subjects, but the way she paints light and shape in the rich sensual medium of oil paint that makes her imagery unique. Hearman's paintings are also characterised by a singular focus on a particular subject. She chooses to leave her works untitled which allows for open interpretation. In the paintings created for the Basil Seller's Prize Hearman transports the viewer into the world of Australian rules football, a sport she contends is the best football game ever invented. Hearman is proud of the fact that Aussie rules originated in the 1850s in Melbourne, her home town. In this exhibition, Hearman focuses on moments in the game which have captured her attention. While light is a primary inspiration, a particular physical gesture, movement or expression becomes a meaningful way to visually communicate the game as both a participatory and spectator sport. Hearman is known for her open spacious dreamlike landscapes, but when she transfers her attention to Australian rules football she captures the raw physicality of the exceptionally fit, virile men who inhabit the 'landscape' of the football field. Their masculinity is celebrated as an integral part of the game and they become heroic figures who are prepared to risk all and to put everything into their game to win.