This original work on paper by Arch Cuthbertson pairs strong artistic lineage with a striking visual language. Confident, gestural marks expand across its scale to create bold movement. It feels both grounded and dynamic - well suited to mid-century modern interiors.

Cuthbertson was a passionate advocate for Australian modernism, working fluidly between cubist, hard-edge abstraction and abstract expressionist styles. His practice was, as one critic observed, akin to old-time jazz—an energetic and intuitive interplay of rhythm, structure and release.

In 'Turtle in the Garden, Sydney', this sensibility comes to the fore: layered marks, tonal shifts and calligraphic movement generate a pictorial field that feels at once spontaneous and resolved. The result is an image alive with urgency, intensity and quiet mystery. The contrasting midnight blue and deep orange and brown tones accompany the hurried charcoal strokes, creating a work full of intensity.

A revered artist and educator, Cuthbertson concluded his teaching career as a Senior Lecturer at Deakin University and was closely connected to figures such as Leonard French and Roger Kemp. His work is represented in major public collections, including the National Gallery of Victoria and the Art Gallery of South Australia.

For collectors and mid-century modern aficionados, this work offers both a refined aesthetic statement and a meaningful connection to Australian modernism—distinct, expressive and enduring.

Arch CUTHBERTSON (1924 - 2000)
'Turtle in the Garden, Sydney' 1989
mixed media on paper
Image Size: 71 x 96 cm
Dimensions: 71 x 96 cm
Signed: Signed 'Cuthbertson' lower right, dated '89', inscribed with title verso

Comes with Letter of Provenance

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) The Artist or Assignee