A seasoned artist working in northern Australia for many years, Ryan’s sustained commitment is to record the more eccentric but sometimes metaphysical dimensions of tropical life in far north Queensland. Her achievement in Mongrel is to have nailed a raw and real aspect of the term ‘companion animal’, albeit one less recognised in metropolitan settings. She noted, ‘I was talking to rangers and one of them said, “that ghost net is a real mongrel”. I thought it funny he said that when I'd been making dogs, hence the show’s title.’
Read MoreAmusing and serious, tough and tender, Ryan is an artist with heart and generous talent. Collaboration with indigenous artists and the ghost net movement over the past six years confirmed her commitment to community and cultural development. Now Sue Ryan’s sculptural gift is at the front and centre of Mongrel.
Text courtesy Martin Browne Contemporary.
