Idea (2005) Painting by Rodney Young

Artist Statement
Rodney Young – Art from this earth

Rod has had a typically Australian journeyman existence, while all along being in touch with this great land, through living and working in rural locations. Life experience that his work reflects, from his multi skilled tradesmen like approach of its creation, and the earthy inspiration of the composition.

Born in Kyabram, Victoria Australia, Rod has resided in many rural locations from Metung to Eildon, in 1990 he returned to Rochester to raise his family along with wife Sue.
Completing a Bachelor of Arts in Nyerna Studies gave Rod the opportunity of working alongside internationally renowned artist Clive Atkinson. This experience liberated creative forces of which Rod had always been in touch with and dabbled, but now began to seriously experiment with in a number of mediums from wood carving and sculpture to expression on canvas.

Being a singer/songwriter and the author of literally hundreds of compositions, Rod has never been short of creative inspiration. Concentrating this instinct on his developing medium of canvas has resulted in these striking works; vividly reflecting the forces of nature and of man’s place as part of the whole, not above or separate to the environment.

Rod completed the works ‘while riding a wave of inspiration’ maintaining momentum in creation so as to present the meaning and feeling vividly to the viewer. Rods background is also an influence; the various techniques and materials used give great texture to the works, and inherently earthy quality that we all can relate to. The works are not only a depiction but a celebration; of our existence and the environment in which we live, the unique landscape of this continent. The vivid representations of nature carry their own cautionary note; a wonder and beauty deserving of our respect and protection. As such, Rod’s great respect and affection for the land and its people are a key element of his works.

Rod continues to develop his art while working with music and young people as co-ordinator of the Echuca Hip hop program for Njernda and Koori Achievement Officer at Shepparton High School, also painting the backdrop for the Wollithica Yenbeena Youth Dance Group. This work along with living on the land with Sue and their children Angie, Harley and Jake, inspires the creations in which we can all share; a perspective and celebration of the qualities of this land that we are all touched by, and will reach you through the works of Rod Young.

• Nationality: AUSTRALIA
• Date of birth : 1967
• Artistic domains:
• Groups: Contemporary Australian Artists