Peteskibreen's Blog

Simon Degroot continues to accelerate the production of geometrical shapes into larger works with additions of loose marks and a vibrant pallette. The strong shape repetition is mesmerizing and could be visual response to a Philip Glass composition as in his sound track for Powaqqatsi.Simon’s two smaller ” Tie Burst” works were the only pieces Simon ventured that had no geometrical boundaries. I loved his work and the evolution of his style, the life emerging in the random colour sweeps represents his new vision. In the next and smaller – and very hot – space is juxtaposed Keith Burt [winner of the 2011 Jugglers Marie Ellis Drawing Prize] beautifully rendered realistic still lifes and portraits. Keith had been busy and had sold quite a few [whereas Simon hadn’t sold any when I was there] maybe indicative of the conservative safe collectors in Brisbane.Keith’s works are very appealing and well priced and in every sense showed the work of an accomplished painter. I could fill my house with works by both artists. Jugglers looks forward to Keith joining the judging panel for the 2012 Marie Ellis Drawing Prize. Which way will Keith go next with his works? Which way Simon?