By ALANA MITCHELSON
A display of award-winning artist Steve Salo’s portraiture is among the highlights of this year’s Geelong After Dark installation.
Salo approached Geelong’s Back to Back Theatre for a collaboration after coming across a picture of its artistic director Bruce Gladwin.
“I knew this was a guy I wanted to paint. I had him on my fridge for six months, then it was after I saw the show Sucker that I approached the company.”
Salo explained that the theatre’s troupe of actors with disabilities each had an “intense and powerful presence”.
“Simon completely drew me in. His face and emotion are a painter’s dream – all of them are.”
The internationally acclaimed theatre company uses its ensemble in productions often expressing social and political issues.
Salo had one-hour sittings with each actor in which he chatted with, sketched and then photograph the subject.
“I loved every second of those sittings. For a portrait painter you can’t beat spending time with the person and it comes through in the painting.
“While photos are useful for colour reference, the emotional impact came from the sitting.
“I’ve learnt about the amazing creative projection that comes from these people; their sensitivity, fragility at times and their intense focus on their work. Back to Back’s performance and awards history is incredible.
“They’ve toured the world, yet they’re so humble about their achievements.”
Central Geelong’s streets, laneways and venues will be transformed on 6 May with Salo’s portrait series on display from 6pm to 8pm at Metropolis Gallery.
Promoters said other installations at Geelong After Dark would include a ukulele extravaganza, an interactive nine-metre-long illuminated skipping rope game and a pop-up sculpture exhibition.
Now in its third year, the program will feature up to 40 artists and arts groups.
