Ep 87: Davida Allen in conversation with William Robinson

Davida Allen and William Robinson, two of Australia’s leading painters, are not only both Archibald winners and Queenslanders but have been friends for over 40 years.

Although they share their thoughts about the art world and their work, their painting styles and personalities are very different – which might be part of the secret to their long friendship.

Davida’s current show with Philip Bacon Galleries in Brisbane runs until 28 March 2020 and William Robinson will be showing with the Gallery later this year. This interview focuses on Davida’s show and an in-depth interview with William Robinson will be posted closer to his exhibition. Bill is one of Australia’s most important internationally acclaimed painters so to obtain his insights into Davida’s work was a privilege.

Apart from winning the Archibald, Davida is also a four time finalist in the prize and has had 3 major survey exhibitions of her work, most recently in 2018. She’s had over 20 solo shows and her work is held in nearly every major state gallery as well as the National Gallery of Australia and the MOMA in New York. She’s also a novelist and has written and directed an internationally acclaimed film.

William Robinson is one of Australia’s most significant painters. He has won the Archibald prize twice, the Wynne prize twice and his work is held in over 30 public collections across the world. He is the first Australian artist to have a gallery dedicated to his works – the William Robinson Gallery is located in historic Old Government House in Brisbane.

We met in William Robinson’s magnificent studio at his home in Brisbane.

To hear our conversation click on the play button beneath the above photo.