InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto is proud to host an outstanding exhibition of landscape paintings by eminent Australian Artist, Geoff La Gerche in The Brickwall Gallery.
Geoff La Gerche has a long history with InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto. In the 1970’s, before it was a hotel, the building was the headquarters for the Print Council of Australia of which Geoff was the President and spent many hours here. We sat down with him to find out what inspires him, what his favourite painting is and what the building means to him.
What inspires your painting?
I was raised in Stawell and spent much time exploring the Grampians before coming to Melbourne. I have always responded to my environment and travels through the landscape. I have canoed the rivers of Victoria, walked extensively in Wilsons Promontory and ridden bikes through much of the Victorian countryside. I have trekked in Nepal, Patagonia and Peru and journeyed the length and breadth of Australia. My paintings are a survey of my life and travels. The lilies are from a pond in my own garden where I am also able to observe birds and seasonal changes.
Favourite painting in the exhibition?
ROCKS AND WATERFALL – It recalls a waterfall on the Mitta Mitta River named ‘” Dislocation Rapid”’ where the water drops and races through the rocks. When painting water one must see through the water to what is happening beneath the surface.
What is your history with the building?
The building was a mixture of artist’s studios, offices, storage and small factories. It used to be the headquarters for the Print Council of Australia through the 70’s. I was the President and spent many hours in the building. It was also the studio for Roger Kemp and George Baldessin – two very prominent Australian artists whom I knew well and spent lots of time with.
What do you love about Melbourne?
I love the sophistication of the galleries; the theatre and MSO. The Botanical Gardens and the River –particularly the paths along the riverside. My favourite time is Autumn when the weather is at its best. Melbourne is a beautiful city where everything is easily accessed through its grid of trams, roads and trains. The sporting arenas are so near and accessible to the city – and the night sky is magnificent, particularly the cultural precincts along the river and St Kilda Road.
Where is the best coffee in Melbourne?
What could I answer but “at your hotel”! Preferably sitting under the skylight and having a beautiful meal as well.
Landscapes Loved – paintings by Geoff La Gerche run until Thursday, July 28, 2016.
The Brickwall Gallery at InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto
