Robert Martiensen, The K Factor (detail) 2006, acrylic on canvas. Private collection.
Robert Martiensen: The Secret
Inspired by Hamilton local, Dr Elizabeth Arthur’s incredible book on this fascinating artist.
This exhibition presents original works by enigmatic artist, Robert Martiensen. In 2007, Robert Martiensen, a recluse, was found deceased in his derelict farmhouse in rural South Australia, revealing an astonishing secret. The property was filled with thousands of his paintings. The rescued collection and the enigmatic creator of the works inspired a study by Dr Elizabeth Arthur, as an art consultant, and the resultant splendid book accompanies the exhibition. The artist emerges as an eccentric intellectual of obsessive passions.
For the very first time, this exhibition unveils an extensive selection of Martiensen’s major works, never before shown to the public.
Exhibition Dates:
Saturday 12 August to Sunday 29 October
Entry to this exhibition is free, with the gallery open 7 days a week.
Public Programs & Events
Exhibition Opening
Friday 11 August 6 pm
Join us for the official opening of the exhibition alongside the publication launch for Robert Martiensen: The Secret.
Event includes local catering, Henty wines and guest speakers.
Free entry, please RSVP for catering purposes to [email protected] or call 5573 0460.
HG: Symposium | The Art & The Artist
Saturday 12 August 10 am
Hear insights on the exhibition from guest speakers:
Dr. Elizabeth Arthur, Art Consultant and Valuer
Professor Jenny Zimmer AM, Art Publisher, and Associate Professor
Anthony White, Art History, University of Melbourne.
HG Talk: Outsider Art & Disability
Saturday 7 October 11 am
Anchored by the work of Robert Martiensen, curator Dr Elizabeth Arthur will be leading a talk about art, disability and what is known as ‘Outsider Art’ created outside of mainstream fine art alongside commentary.
Free event, RSVP via the link.
The ABC created a fascinating article on this enigmatic artist, resulting in record numbers of visitors to the gallery.
You can watch the video and read the article by clicking the button below.
HG Play: Feelings (Robert Martiensen)
Wednesday 16 August, 4pm – 5pm
Inspired by the work of Robert Martiensen, children will choose a painting and learn how to harness abstract mark-making, pattern and line to express themselves by transforming feelings into art.
Ages 4 – 11, materials supplied
HG Play: The Secret (Robert Martiensen)
Wednesday 23 August, 4pm – 5pm
Inspired by the work of Robert Martiensen, children will be encourage to use crayons to create artworks using bold mark-making on a large communal artwork the children will design together.
Ages 4 – 11, materials supplied
Publication
Dr Elizabeth Arthur has curated an astonishing publication about the artist behind the works and the story of this remarkable discovery, including more than 500 colour reproductions of the artist’s work and the astonishing warehouse in which they were discovered.
You can learn more about the book on the Australian Scholarly Publishing website.
This publication is available to browse or to purchase from the Hamilton Gallery Shop- please register your interest here in receiving a copy and contact us if you would like to arrange delivery.