Dale Richards is a painter based in Opossum Bay, Tasmania. His surrealistic and figurative scenes are both compelling and challenging, using oil paint to capture a diverse range of subject matter.
Richards approach to painting conveys a raw energy, which seamlessly shifts from fanciful to edgy, reminiscent of the social realist artists from the early 20th Century. Often described as dream-like, Richards distinctive works capture characters that occasionally appear melancholic, but always compelling. Stripper In Spotlight recalls the seedy lives shows that defined the notorious Kings Cross strip back in the 1980’s. Figures watch on as a stripper carry on an enthralling personal performance. This style of imagery is familiar to many, reminiscent of the social realists artists of the early twentieth century and is underpinned by a strange sense of unease. Richards often depicted such scenes from Kings Cross, revealing its dark subculture and nightlight. Richards had a studio in the Kings Cross area during this period in his practice. This painting is an oil monotype unique state print, a technique used by Richards by pressing a pice of paper against a freshly painted canvas. This work has been in a single private collection in Sydney and has recently been reframed.
Despard Gallery has represented Richards for over twenty five years, exhibiting his work over fifteen times across the USA, Sydney and Melbourne. His works are held in numerous private and public collections, both nationally and internationally.
DALE RICHARDS
Stripper In Spotlight c1985
Oil monotype on paper [unique state]
60 x 76 cm
Signed lower right
$4,250.00 [framed]
PROVENANCE:
Private collection Sydney
