PROLIFIC local artist, Gregory R Beckenham, has entered the Archibald Prize, regarded as Australia’s most prestigious portrait prize.
Mr Beckenham entered the Archibald for the first time in the early 2000s. During a fishing expo, Greg met former AFL player and radio personality, Rex Hunt, in line.
“My children wanted an autograph, and I had a light bulb moment – I thought if I could paint Rex, I might be in with a shot,” he said.
“Rex let me paint him, but I did not make the list of 40 nominated entries that year as they had 650 entries. It was really special to get a letter from Rex thanking me for the painting. It now hangs in his room of memorabilia.”
His entry is a self-portrait titled Becko. Greg says the message behind this piece is, “it’s never too late to find the person within you,” he said.
“Even though I have been painting since secondary school, it’s just lately I believe that I have found that person within me.”
Greg was fortunate to work during the pandemic, however he says Covid has been a wakeup call.
“Covid slowed people down, stopped the hustle and bustle and showed us that we can enjoy a new, simpler lifestyle,” he said.
“I would get frustrated with myself for not producing and releasing what I’m capable of,” he said. “Exploring procedures and tracing colours to use was my way of delaying my next piece as I wasn’t confident enough to make a start.”
“Like many artists, I have worked to put this behind me. Three years ago, I picked up a palette knife and a white blank board and started painting and letting my mind do the rest.”
“It’s some of the most fun I’ve had as an artist.”
For commission artworks that make a great gift or way of remembering and celebrating a special person (or pet!), contact Greg on 0400 227 883 or becko@outlook.com.au
Each painting features a special message that the art is built upon. To see what I mean and Greg’s incredible artworks, go to www.facebook.com/gregbecko
