5 – 29 March 2025
Despard Gallery is proud to present a survey exhibition of classic artworks by established Tasmanian artist Dale Richards.
Based in Opossum Bay, Richards’ iconic approach to painting conveys a raw energy, which seamlessly shifts from fanciful to edgy, reminiscent of the social realist artists from the early 20th Century. Often described as dream-like, Richards distinctive works capture characters that occasionally appear melancholic, but always compelling. His imagery is familiar to many, with Punch in his colourful tent situated on the coast alongside carnival folk, kids and animals, a vision akin to an English holiday camp from another era.
The small coastal community of Opossum Bay where Richards lives and works has also inspired many of his compositions, with its idyllic coastal views and shifting weather. This includes dramatic scenes of scudding clouds and wind bent casuarina, where robust figures haul wooden boats from rough seas.
Despard Gallery has represented Richards for over thirty years, exhibiting his work over fifteen times across the USA, Sydney and Melbourne. His works are held in numerous private and public collections, both nationally and internationally. This survey exhibition presents curated selection of significant works by Richards from the last twenty years.