Jesse Graham

Russel the Rhino
stainless steel, brass, tin, iron, aluminium
Wollombi township, 2007

Last year as I was saying my goodbyes to individual artists, Jesse Graham promised me a Rhino! And sure enough not one but two arrived just in time for the 2007 opening. Russel came off the trailer and was installed later to be joined by Bruno, the Baby Rhino. Russel and Bruno are central stage across the road from the famous Wollombi Tavern, the only watering hole in town and can't be missed. The pair, I believe will be holidaying with us for a while - so take a trip up to the Hunter and make sure you visit. You can check out some of Jesse's smaller works in Sydney, for the whole month of January 08 at Regard Gallery - 372 Wilson Street (Cnr. Codrington Street) Darlington, opposite the entrance to Carriageworks performing arts centre.
Jesse Graham web

Jesse Graham

Last night in the extra cold, extra dark of a Wollombi evening, Jesse Graham, Jo his very supportive (P.O.S.A - see previous posting) partner and his aunt and uncle, Peter and Anne, worked feverishly with an effective however makeshift gantry to install "Largeness" at Cedar Creek Vineyard. Shortly before, in the light of late afternoon, another of his large sculptures "Tenor" was installed on a site courtesy Steve at Wollombi Real Estate adjacent to the office and across the road from the Wollombi Tavern.

In a word!! AMAZING! Jesse constructs these monumental works from any number of recyled materials. On closer examination you will recognise bits of cars, farm machinery, tools - all manner of scrap metals come to life as mythic beasts and in the case of "Tenor" a very animated opera singer celebrating the countryside. Not to be missed!!

His sample of his most recent work, larger than life egyptian Gods and Goddess', will feature this month in "Walking the Street" exhibition in Newtown main street at shop 559. http://www.ar.com.au/~iwcs/WTS.html