Renaissance painter inspires artist's PhD work

Although created far away in time and place, the instantly recognisable paintings of the Italian Renaissance artist Piero della Francesca have provided the main inspiration for an innovative work-in progress exhibition by a Southern Cross University PhD student.

Marko Koludrovic, who is also a part-time lecturer in SCU's School of Contemporary Arts, is nearing the end of his doctoral research and creative interpretations of della Francesca's 15th century depictions of masculinity in his frescoes, altar pieces and tempera panels.

His research project has included a six-week trip to Italy to view a range of the famous artist's work, including an original manuscript held at the Vatican Library.

"I have examined Piero's works from social and philosophical perspectives that link his figurative pictorial systems and architectural spaces to personal narratives and gender identities," Koludrovic explained.

The next important stage will be the exhibition, '5 Minutes with Piero: transacting masculinities', that will be open to the public from August 6-17 at the Art Musuem on SCU's Lismore campus. The exhibition, planned to occupy the whole ground floor of the Museum, will comprise works using classical encaustic (hot wax) and tempera (egg emulsion) techniques in woven paintings, as well as sculptural objects, transfer drawings and mixed media wall-pieces.

In addition the artist will present an audio-visual seminar for academics and other interested people (members of the public welcome) on Friday, 10 August, at 3.00pm. Koludrovic intends to invite feedback on core issues and foster discussion on della Francesca's portrayals of masculinity.

Marko Koludrovic is supported in his research by Hampton and Larsson and Denny's Upholsterers, both of Lismore, and Eden at Byron Garden Centre. He will present the final exhibition for his PhD at Lismore City Hall in March 2002.