Departure

Departure presents an image of mortality. The subject behind the piece is the passing of two significant women within a short space of time of the artist: The artists mother and maternal grandmother. The artist has chosen to depict the lightness of spirit of both women rather than dwell on the darkness grief can summon. In doing so, these valued lives are celebrated and remembered with joy .

A circumspect spiritual piece, Departure vibrates with joy and uses uplifting colours to lighten the mood of a space while holding the viewers attention through its composition and textural elements. The oil finish provides a lustre and freshness to the piece.

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Justin Bishop was born in Newcastle in 1975 and graduated USQ Toowoomba c.2000. He worked in the Arts sector in Queensland as an artist and arts worker holding positions of Director of Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery, Exhibitions Manager of Cairns Art Gallery and Director of KickArts Contemporary Arts (now Northsite).

While based in Cairns, Justin played in bands, organised gigs, recordings and tours. During the pandemic he moved into working in the signage industry. Its materials and concepts of developing and displaying an image opened new pathways for his practice.

Justin considers himself a returning artist, that is returning to feeling confident to exhibit again and make meaning by making artwork.

He currently lives and work on Gurambilbarra Country (Townsville) and maintain an arts practice across multiple disciplines.