Although David Fairbairn’s portraits are presented as large mixed-media drawings, in recent years he has worked almost exclusively on large-scale etchings.
The different characteristics of line between the two mediums are particular qualities that engage the artist; the corrosive mark in the etchings made as a result of the printmaking process or the drawn line on paper using charcoal or pastel. Now working mainly in monochrome, Fairbairn is able to reinforce the underlying formal and abstract structures in the depiction of the sitter, while still emphasising the emotional and psychological content of the work.
David Fairbairn, Large Head TC No. 1, 2016, copper etching, drypoint, power-tools on Arches paper, Unique state, 121 x 106cm
David Fairbairn explains, ‘It is important to me that my etchings compliment and extend my previous explorations in drawing. With these new prints, drawing directly from the sitter onto the copper etching plate is an important aspect of my process. The length of time spent with a person and the stopping and starting of a work as a series develops, are factors that contribute to the final outcome. I am interested in the unexpected transformative qualities of the line that is etched by immersion in ferric chloride. The quality of the corrosive line is different to a drawn line on paper using charcoal or pastel. Now working predominantly in black and white, I am able to reinforce the underlying formal and abstract structures in the depiction of the sitter, whilst still emphasising the emotional and psychological content of the work.’
David Fairbairn, Large head JB No.1, 2012, acrylic, gouache, charcoal, pastel and ink on paper, 173 x 208cm
‘Drawn to Print’ comprises a selection of drawings produced from 2010-2016, and etchings of the same sitters created during the period 2015-2017. The show offers a rich exploration of the psyche of both the artist and his sitters who have built up close friendships over many years.
David Fairbairn is represented by Port Jackson Press Print Gallery, Melbourne.
Orange Regional Gallery
Until 1 April, 2018
New South Wales
