John Olsen Quotes

Artist
Australia
1928

John Olsen is an Australian artist known for his vibrant and expressive paintings of the Australian landscape. His works are characterized by their bold use of color and texture, and often feature native flora and fauna. Olsen is best known for his large-scale public works, including the murals at the Sydney Opera House and the Parliament House in Canberra. He has also been awarded the Order of Australia and the Australia Council Visual Arts Award. His works are held in numerous public and private collections around the world.Read Less

What joy there is in hearing yourself think, and to make that thinking into ink. Feraz Zeid, January 12, 2024, John Olsen, Ink, Joy, 0

- John Olsen

Artist

· Australia

Art is not so much talent as character… it’s what you are, the qualities of the person. Feraz Zeid, January 12, 2024, John Olsen, Art, Character, Quality, 0

- John Olsen

Artist

· Australia

Really good mountain bikers are lousy judges of trail difficulty. We haven’t a clue, we just ride. Feraz Zeid, January 12, 2024, John Olsen, Judging, Mountain, 0

- John Olsen

Artist

· Australia

Painting is a means of self-enlightenment. Feraz Zeid, September 23, 2023, John Olsen, Art, Self, 0

- John Olsen

Artist

· Australia

Art
Self

John Olsen Career Highlights

Olsen’s career began in the 1950s when he moved to Europe and studied at the prestigious Académie de la Grande Chaumière in Paris. During this time, he was heavily influenced by the works of French artists such as Paul Cézanne and Henri Matisse.
In 1960, Olsen returned to Australia and became a founding member of the influential art collective, the “Sydney 9”. This group aimed to challenge the traditional landscape painting style and bring a more modern and abstract approach to Australian art.
In the 1960s, Olsen’s career took off with his iconic series of paintings titled “The You Beaut Country”. These works captured the unique Australian landscape with bold colors and abstract forms, establishing Olsen as a leading figure in the Australian art scene.
In 1977, Olsen was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his services to the arts. He was also made an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2001.
In 2005, Olsen was awarded the prestigious Australia Council Visual Arts Emeritus Award, recognizing his significant contribution to the development of Australian art.

Key Contributions by John Olsen

Olsen’s unique and expressive style has had a significant impact on the development of Australian art. His use of bold colors and abstract forms challenged the traditional landscape painting style and brought a new perspective to the Australian landscape.
Olsen’s work has also been influential in promoting the Australian landscape and culture internationally. His paintings have been exhibited in major galleries and museums around the world, including the Tate Gallery in London and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
As a founding member of the “Sydney 9”, Olsen played a crucial role in shaping the direction of Australian art in the 1960s. He encouraged artists to break away from traditional styles and embrace a more modern and abstract approach.
Olsen’s contribution to the arts extends beyond painting. He has also worked as a printmaker, sculptor, and ceramicist, showcasing his versatility and creativity as an artist.

What Sets John Olsen Apart

Olsen’s ability to capture the essence of the Australian landscape in a unique and expressive way sets him apart from other artists. His paintings are not just a representation of the physical landscape, but also a reflection of the emotions and spirit of the land.
Olsen’s use of bold colors and abstract forms in his paintings is a signature style that sets him apart from other Australian artists. His works are instantly recognizable and have become iconic representations of the Australian landscape.
Olsen’s passion for the Australian landscape and culture is evident in his work. He has a deep connection to the land and this is reflected in the energy and vibrancy of his paintings.

Takeaways

John Olsen’s career highlights the importance of pushing boundaries and challenging traditional styles in the arts.
His unique and expressive style has had a significant impact on the development of Australian art and has helped to promote the country’s landscape and culture internationally.
Olsen’s versatility as an artist, working in various mediums, showcases his creativity and passion for the arts.
His legacy continues to inspire and influence artists in Australia and around the world, making him a true icon in the art world.

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