George Baldessin is still regarded as one of Australia’s preeminent artists. During his short but influential lifetime, he was considered on par with Brett Whiteley, with both artists eschewing the dominant mode of abstraction in favour of lyrical, figurative imagery.

Baldessin was renowned for his masterful use of etching and aquatint, merging figuration with abstraction to create charged atmospheres that explored themes of desire, vulnerability, and identity. The Performance series is regarded as a cornerstone of his oeuvre, bridging his sculptural sensibility with the expressive possibilities of printmaking. These works encapsulate the theatrical intensity and emotional edge that defined his most sought-after creations.

As one of the most influential Australian printmakers of the 20th century, Baldessin’s works are highly prized by both institutions and private collectors. His Performance prints, produced in small editions, are particularly coveted for their technical innovation and symbolic power. This work of art is rare to market and embodies the enduring significance of Baldessin’s practice.

George BALDESSIN (1939 - 1978)
'Performance'
coloured etching and aquatint on paper
Image Size: 30 x 22 cm
Dimensions: 74 x 58 x 4 cm
Signed: Signed, titled and editioned 'Artist Proof 'Performance' George Baldessin' under image
Comes with Letter of Provenance
Condition: The work is float mounted in the frames, allowing for the edges of the paper to be visible. This adds to the unique quality of the presentation of this artwork and artists intention. The mountboard and frame are in fine condition.
Condition: Very Good: Describes a work of art's image as Excellent, but may show some small signs of surrounding wear to paper or frame. There are no tears to paper margin or disruption to the paint surface.

(c) George Baldessin / Copyright Agency