2009 Visual Arts Outstanding Entry

Charlie Sublet

The Thin Red Line
(Type C Photograph – Lambda Lustre Archival Print, 50cm x 50cm) 

Artist's Statement

In 1998 I lost my first love, Lea Canning, to ‘small cell ovarian cancer’. She was a wonderful 26 year old woman with an alluring, vivacious and striking personality. She was struck down in under 8 weeks.

Unfortunately in 2007 another friend, Liam Cody, lost his life to skin cancer. He was a great believer in pursuing your dreams and laughing at the absurdities of life. He whole-heartedly encouraged me to keep pursuing my artistic endeavours as he understood both the worth of art and the importance of following your heart. I regularly think of him and draw on his encouragement.

Judge's Comments

This stark image of a hospital floor speaks so simply, yet powerfully of the experience of cancer for many – periods of waiting for patients and family and friends, and the sense of precious time being wasted or lost. It conveys a sense of the unknown and perhaps powerlessness, amidst the systems and bureaucracies of the medical establishment. From an art historical perspective, the photograph’s use of strong colour and emphasis on corners also recalls the crisp angularity of international Modernism.

Judge: Kelly Gellatly Curator of Contemporary Art, National Gallery of Victoria

Visual Art Commendations

Patsy Killeen	Highly Commended
Steve Hall	Commended
Meg Higgins	Commended

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