POETIC PRACTICES IN A HAPPY MEDIUM
PH 0432016906
2007 Winner Nudgee Art Prize , judged by Stephen Rainbird
2009 CHURCHIE FINALIST, Judged by Jeff Makin
STIRRING IMAGINATIONS: Andrew Lang of Brighton credits his Jamaican childhood with sparking a passion for the arts. Pic Russell Brown
Artist inspired by everyday life
By Jacob Grams
"WORDS are like cattle to be herded and led to slaughter," shouts Andrew Langs news paper clipping-clad alter-ego,Media Man.
Behind a Ned Kelly-style helmet his voice booms from his Brighton backyard as he prepares for a performance at the Ted Smout Memorial Bridge opening celebrations.
"I enjoy playing the character- hes quite powerful," the Bahamas born poet said.
He credits his early life growing up in Jamaica , with its sights , sounds and rhythms , as the influence behind his passion for creative arts.
"There was a lot of fun, a lot of colour, a lot of rhythm,"Lang said."We lived next door to the guy who produced Bob Marleys first album, so he used to bring me records home,with no labels attached, and Id listen to them."
Since the 55 year-old came to Australia with his family in 1970, he has drawn inspiration from everyday life.
"Its in sport,its in other peoples artworks,its in photos,its the beach early on a winters morning when youre taking the dog for a walk," he said.
Its the way that you view something and the way that you let something touch you as well." If youre open to it youll feel something."
Langs creativity has helped him win the Nudgee Art Prize, be a finalist in the Churchie art prize last year and earn a spot on Hey Hey Its Saturdays Red Faces.
He also regularly performs at Music by the Sea and monthly community entertainment event the Unplugged Cafe.Lang, who works part-time
at Holy Spirit Hospital, said he painted for "pride and feeling" and aimed to engage the imagination of his audience."Generally theres not just one message but to stir the imagination.to engage in a conversation with a person without even being there," he said.
"Even if you dont like it thats a good comment."
Lang said Brighton was the perfect place to work his passion and he hoped he would continue to be inspired."Without the inspiration the goal would be pretty hollow," he said
PRECIOUS TIME...$2000.00
CONCERTO.. $2400.00
REFRESHMENT..$1800.00
MUSOS..$1800.00
