Artists statement

"Another day at the office as a platoon prepares to mount tracks for insertion into night ambush positions. The gunners were the heart of the platoon with enormous firepower." (3 Platoon, A Company, 8RAR )

Historical information

This series of paintings was created by Robert E D'Arcy, who served as a Corporal in 8RAR in 1969-1970. Figures in this painting are from 3 Platoon, A Company, 8RAR. The images are from colour photographs taken by the artist, each being an interpretation of the snapshot. The photographic image has been simplified with a flattened perspective to give the impression of a 1970s style poster. The olive green signifies the colour of the jungle and the uniforms worn by troops, with the dark shades providing an atmosphere reminiscent of old photographs and their negatives. The paintings in "Snapshots from the Front" depict remembered images that endure in the minds of Vietnam veterans.

Physical description

Work in 2 shades of khaki green and black on a white background features four Australian soldiers in uniform carrying weapons and wearing bandoliers of cartridges leading a group of other soldiers.