The Nightingale and The Rose at ACMI
‘Wilder Grew Her Song’ Del Kathryn Barton 2011-2012
Acrylic, gouache, watercolour and ink on polyester canvas
A few of years ago, revered Australian artist Del Kathryn Barton released a book based on the classic Oscar Wilde fairy tale from 1888 called The Nightingale and The Rose.
The book is stunning and I bought a copy for one of my nieces at the time.
A casual conversation with friend and film maker Brendan Fletcher led her to taking the project in to a short, animated film.
Last week, the film was launched at ACMI and I had the pleasure of being there for opening night. Del is not only an incredible artist but a great speaker and gave the audience a wonderful insight in to the project.
The film which only runs for 14 minutes is beautiful - a fantastical fairytale with a musical score by Sarah Blasko and voiced by Australian actors including Geoffrey Rush and Mia Wasikowska.
ACMI have created a beautiful exhibition room with Del Kathryn Barton’s original paintings and some of the hand made art direction for the film.
This exhibition is FREE and is on now at ACMI until September the 11th.
Thea Basiliou
Author