Philippe Le Miere’s ‘Alice in a game of kangaroo chess’ mashes-up the work of two iconic Australian artists, Garry Shead and Charles Blackman. Across from Blackman’s wide-eyed Alice sits Shead’s kangaroo; both Alice and the kangaroo wander through their respective oeuvres, bearing simultaneous literary and personal resonance.

Shead’s kangaroo is inspired by the writing of DH Lawrence, in whom he sensed a cross-temporal connection. The kangaroo Lawrence had written of haunted Sheads painting, reaching back to a childhood experience he had of shooting one. Blackman’s Alice was taken from Lewis Carroll’s ‘Alice in Wonderland’, in which is recognised the experience of his wifes encroaching blindness – both Alice and Barbara Blackman were navigating increasingly disorientating realities.

Locked in a game of chess, Le Miere’s work explores the interconnecting moves made through Australian art. His work shifts the focus from the artist to the viewer, inviting new perspectives on Australian modernism. An original painting, ‘Alice in a game of kangaroo chess’ will enrich collections of modern and contemporary Australian art, a gift that will never disappoint. Check mate.

Philippe LE MIERE (1975 - )
'Study for Alice in a game of kangaroo chess' 2024
acrylic on canvas
Image Size: 51 x 66 cm
Dimensions: 51 x 66 cm
Signed: Signed lower right Le Miere, inscribed verso Philippe Le Miere, title and date
Comes with Letter of Provenance

Condition: Excellent

(c) The Artist or Assignee

This painting is a Study for a Major Work. As part of his creative process, Philippe Le Miere first produces a Study before a larger Major Work; both are original and unique, priced to reflect their different sizes.

This work of art comes unstretched to allow for safe and economical shipping. If you prefer, this painting can be stretched or stretched and framed. Please contact us should you wish to discuss what option suits your needs.