One of Australia’s most iconic artists, Brett Whiteley was deeply preoccupied with the relationship between self and place, often questioning the extent to which environment shapes identity. This inquiry is powerfully expressed in his depictions of Lavender Bay, the small Sydney suburb that housed his studio and home, where landscape becomes inseparable from lived experience.

In 'Lavender Bay Wharf', this sense of intimacy is intricately conveyed. Using his signature elongated forms and figures, Whiteley's etching creates a delicate, monochromatic composition of his best-known subject.

Whiteley said that he liked to have his studio at home because “my best work is usually the last thing I've done at night, and the first on waking next morning”. Whiteley rendered the views of Sydney Harbour with such a sensual eye and fluid hand that they have seamlessly found their way into the Australian consciousness. 

Among Australia’s most celebrated artists, Whiteley won the Art Gallery of NSW Archibald, Wynne and Sulman prizes several times. This work of art, like the harbour itself, is sure to continue to bring inspiration for those that cherish the visual poetry of Brett Whiteley. 

Brett WHITELEY (1939 - 1992)
'Lavender Bay Wharf' 1978
etching on paper
Edition of 90
Image Size: 64 x 52 cm
Framed Dimensions: 83 x 70 x 5 cm
Signed: Editioned and signed 'brett whiteley' in margin.
Comes with a Letter of Provenance

Literature:
- Deutscher, C., Brett Whiteley: The Graphics 1961-1992, Deutscher Fine Art, Melbourne, 1995, p.112, cat. no. 47 (illus., p.55, another impression);
- Sutherland, K. Brett Whiteley: Catalogue Raisonne, Schwartz Publishing, Melbourne, 2019, cat 93P.

Condition: Very Good. The work of art’s image is Excellent, but there may be minor signs of wear to the paper margin or frame. There are no tears to the paper margin or disruptions to the paint surface.

(c) Wendy Whiteley / Copyright Agency