Brett Whiteley Studio

By ERIN WALKER

Brett Whiteley’s Studio is one of Sydney’s best kept secrets. The converted warehouse exhibits the works of one of Australia’s most celebrated contemporary artists. Whitely bought the Surry Hills warehouse in 1985 and converted it into both his home and studio and he lived here until his death in 1992. The Home was purchased by the NSW government and is now managed by the Art Gallery of New South Wales, who keeps Whiteley’s exhibition works in rotation.

The changing exhibits span Whiteley’s multiple artistic mediums, featuring his paintings, sculptures, collages, and drawings, as well as his unfinished works, old equipment, sketchbooks, images and even his furniture.

Whiteley is renowned for his use of bold colour, appreciation of landscape and nude portraiture, and psychedelic interpretation, and the atmosphere in his studio provides a unique glimpse into his tumultuous and creative private life.

The studio is currently presenting the Eternity Is Now exhibition that traverses Whiteley’s works of portraiture and human form, exploring his perpetual curiosity and experimentation. It features two of his major works – Alchemy and Self-Portrait In The Studio (his 1976 Archibald winning piece) –  both which are celebrated for portraying his consciousness at that point in his life.

Brett Whiteley Studio

2 Raper St, Surry Hills

www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au