Historical information

A finalist in the Shire of Eltham Art Awards in 1985.
Born in Harrow, England, Graham Fransella studied at the Bradford School of Art, Yorkshire. He came to Australia in 1975. Graham Fransella lives and works in Melbourne and is represented by galleries across Australia.

Significance

Fransella is an artist (printmaker) of national significance.
“A feature of Fransella’s art is that it has an immediate visual simplicity, sometimes possessing the lucidity of graffiti-like directness, but this is attained through the most complex and intricate means. The surface on which he works is the arena in which he performs with an endless layering of marks, surfaces and signs. It seems that he surrenders to an intuitive process, one in which chance serves as an active collaborator. Ultimately his practice engages with the theory of the artist’s subconscious being allowed unbridled freedom of expression.”
Sasha Grishin AM FAHA, in 'Gorgeous simplicity in signature themes: Graham Fransella', Sydney Morning Herald, April 5, 2014

Physical description

This etching depicts a busy and carefree day at the beach in bright colours of red and blue. The figures are drawn with spontaneity and simplicity, which is characteristic of Fransella's style. Figures are positioned in states of relaxation or bounce around beach scenes in joyful exuberance.