John Coburn Uluru, 1990

The inspiration for John Coburn's "Uluru" series of works stems from a multitude of sources, intertwining his personal connection to the Australian landscape, his deep respect for the Australian Aboriginal culture and spirituality, and his artistic influences from Europe.

When visiting Uluru (formerly Ayers Rock, Northern Territory, Australia), Coburn was captivated by Uluru's sheer scale, presence, and spiritual significance (Ayers Rock). He saw it as a living entity imbued with ancient wisdom and stories. The rock's vibrant colors, particularly at sunrise and sunset (hence the browns, reds and blacks), and its ever-changing moods under different lighting conditions deeply inspired his abstract renditions.

Coburn spent significant time with various Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory of Australia and learned of their profound connection to Uluru as a sacred site (he also went on to create a series of works entitle "Sacred Site" as an extension of this series). This understanding influenced his approach, prompting him to capture the essence of the land rather than its literal representation. He aimed to evoke the spiritual energy and enduring ancestral presence that resonates within Uluru.

The artist was a pioneer of abstract expressionism in Australia. He believed that abstract art could communicate deeper emotions and spiritual experiences beyond the limitations of figurative representation. Using bold shapes, vibrant colours, and dynamic compositions, he sought to translate the essence of Uluru in a way that resonated with the viewer on a more visceral level.

Materials - Multi-plate Silkscreen, Hand Finished by the Artist
Size - 19 7/10 × 27 3/5 × 1/5 in | 50 × 70 × 0.5 cm
Rarity - Limited edition
Medium - Print
Condition - Pristine Condition
Signature - Hand-signed by artist, Signed & dated in black pencil, 'Coburn '90'. Titled lower centre , 'Uluru'.
Certificate of authenticity - Included (one issued by gallery; one issued by authorized authenticating body)
Publisher - Silk Screen, Published by the Artist John Coburn in an Edition of 40 Only
Image rights - Image Copyright the Artist