The late Max Watters OAM (1936-2020) donated his extensive collection of artworks to the Muswellbrook Shire in 2004, a collection which showcases some of the most influential names in contemporary Australian art, is conservatively valued at more than $5 million and forms the nucleus of the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre anthology.
And now Muswellbrook Shire Council are seeking an artist to render a likeness of Max Watters for the forecourt of the Arts Centre to show the widespread respect and admiration the community has for the artist.
Mayor Martin Rush said he cannot imagine anyone who more aptly personified Muswellbrook than Max Watters and that Council were honoured to acknowledge his contribution to the Shire.
“Max loved Muswellbrook and had very blunt words for anyone who didn’t. Humble, generous and without any pretensions, he was inspired by assisting young and emerging artists and others in the community. And, as a community we were inspired by him,” he said.
The artist’s sister, Marie Partridge, said the family were very pleased with the proposal and to be involved in the project.
“It is wonderful to be involved in the design process to select a design that reflects Max as the respected artist he was,” she said.
Council spokesperson for the arts Cr Jason Foy said every piece of Max Watters art is itself a rich part of the region’s heritage which will long be treasured.
“Max’s own art captured iconic Muswellbrook landscapes and heritage, depicting them in his unique artistic style. It is a privilege for Council to commission a work of art in his honour,” he said.
Muswellbrook Shire Council is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified artists to undertake the construction of a three-dimensional public art installation. A full brief is available on council’s website: www.muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au For further information please contact Kim Manwarring via email: kim.manwarring@muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au
Expressions of interest should be submitted by 5pm, Monday 30 November 2020.
Media release and image courtesy of Muswellbrook Shire Council
Image credit: Elissa Emerson