Benalla Art Gallery transformed into a universe of colour

Thematically, the exhibition utilises and celebrates the most fundamental of artistic elements — form and colour.

In conceiving the exhibition, Mr Selenitsch referenced French post-Impressionist painter Paul Cezanne, who once said “Colour is the place where our brain and the universe meet”.

“It is only through the most simple and direct sensory experiences that we can connect with the ‘stuff-of-matter’ around us,” Mr Selenitsch said.

“By experiencing colour — or at times, simple forms — we merge with our environment in a direct bodily way, a process that is outside of any means of expression.

“In other words, we don’t see colour and form — we do colour and form.”

Benalla Art Gallery director Eric Nash said it was joyous to see the exhibition space transformed, and was excited to see that transformation continue during the coming months.

“Nick Selenitsch has breathed new life into the Bennett Gallery, and his chalk drawing, titled O, is simultaneously arresting and sensitive,” Mr Nash said.

“The act of creation is beautifully revealed in the fallen chalk. The community are invited into the process of creation.

“I’m eager to see visitors continue the chalk drawing on the back wall of the gallery throughout the exhibition.”

Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn said she was excited about the exhibition and believed there would be strong community interest.

“Over the Summer months, Nick Selenitsch is presenting our community with an exhibition that is uplifting, enlightening, and steeped in art theory, while also providing visitors of all ages a drawing experience to actively participate in,” Cr Hearn said.

“I encourage everyone to come and visit the gallery, be involved in the experience, explore and enjoy this exhibition, while also participating and creating art.”

Nick Selenitsch: Form and the Universe of Colour is on show in the Bennett Gallery until Sunday, February 6.