Canberra-based artist Petros Papoulis’ new exhibition, Near Water, which features 35 works inspired by the industry, people and happenings found near bodies of water, will be displayed at Humble House gallery this month.

Papoulis laughed as he said he isn’t so good in or on the water, rather, it is by the water’s edge where he is able to find moments of peace or sparks of inspiration.

The artworks featured in the exhibition have been inspired by wharves, docks, and bridges from across Australia’s eastern states, spanning from Melbourne to Queensland, with many stops along the way.

Papoulis’ obsession for detail shines through in the works: water reflects boat’s markings; each ripple suggests the wind has just passed by; and the rocks look like they might graze you if you reach out to touch them.

The use of frottage helps bring them to life; it is the technique of creating textural effect by rubbing over a rough surface like wood or concrete. This method, accompanied by the mediums of painting, drawing and collage, creates realistic pieces that have just a hint of abstract.  

Each artwork tells its own story, whether it be a metaphor such as in the time-ravaged structures in Old Friends, an imagined conversation between a man and his dog in What Will Happen to Our Bridge?, or it may be something else that is unique to each viewer.

See Near Water at Humble House gallery in Fyshwick from 6 August to 4 September. Find out more at humblehouse.com.au

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