1987 - 1988 Exhibition Rabaul Coffee shop

One of the  things I enjoy about being here is the people and the colors. When I paint, I have to ensure I do not accentuate the vibrancy, as so many of the colors are already so bright. 

In our shop - tradestore - where we sell anything from fish hooks, lengths of material, underpants, and bicycles to tinned fish and out-board motors, there is a broad representation of all these colors. I often find myself rearranging the shelves, be it physically or mentally, so that the juxtaposition of patterns and colors, is pleasing.

For this exhibition I have completed a body of work where I have included some of the people who work for us, Kevin, Poro and Vusas, and I have used the shelves and counters, and their contents, to make what I hope are pleasing compositions. 

I have done the preliminary works in pastel. Am pleased with how these look and may explore pastels some more.

Painting, oil on canvas  18 inches x 18 inches.

                                       

 We have enjoyed our time here on Teopasino Plantation, however we can feel a certain build-up of unrest throughout Bougainville. Not that there is much directed at us personally, but it is worrying, especially as we have a small child to consider. Because of the unrest we have not travelled as much as usual which  means that I have had more time to paint. However Cameron has made inquiries regarding a transfer and a move seems imminent.

Coffee shop exhibition 1988

 Well life is full of unexpected happenings. Cameron has been accepted to fill a position as General Manager on a plantation just outside of Rabaul. We will have a holiday in Australia and move to East New Britain when we return.

I have such mixed emotions. Firstly I will miss many of the people we have come to think of as friends and I will miss the environment, and coast.

I guess there are many advantages. Arron will be able to attend pre-school and mix with more children his age. And I will be closer to shopping, health, and a creative artistic community.

Will forward these works to Rabaul for the next exhibition. Extremely thankful to Ron and Bill who run the coffee shop. They frame my works and ensure they are hung in prime position on their walls, ready to be viewed by the passengers who travel to Rabaul on the cruise ships. Big thank you.