About the Artist
As there is a wide range of styles, Herberts' work caters for a wide range of tastes in art, from the surreal (dream imagery) to the abstract, to the photo (real). Many show a long standing interest in metaphysics and poetry but others are of a much lighter commercial vain. There are however, several major themes to Herbert's work as a whole.
During Herbert's student days at art institutions in Newcastle, Sydney and London, Herbert was strongly influenced by the work of such modern masters as Cezanne, Picasso, Matisse, Moore, Bacon and Chagal. Later he also became interested in the works of Olsen and Whiteley. In so far as contemporary art is concerned he's developed his methodologies and philosophies along similar lines. But more recently he's begun to return to some more traditional methods and subject matter
Background
- Began training in commercial art - National Art School East Sydney
- Moved into studies in fine arts for four years and after some further studies in London worked as a freelance artist. Met several leading contemporary artists whilst in London and became influenced by their works. Exhibited some individual pieces before returning to Australia.
- Returned to Australia to take a position as an art teacher with the Department of Education. Worked several years at that before continuing to work as a part-time artist, part-time teacher. In this period sold quite a few works and did a large quantity of art.
- While continuing to work in art became interested in the more academic side of the field (philosophy / aesthetics / literary arts / art history etc.) and started university studies and left university after reading for a post-graduate degree.
- Since leaving University has taught at several high schools and gradually returned to working as a full-time freelance artist. Currently involved in various commissioned projects in the Sydney region. Some particulars of Herbert's background can be found in: "Who's Who of Australian Art" Second Edition, and the forthcoming edition of "Artists of Australia".
- Listed on the National Association of Visual Artists' Artists Gallery
Competitions Entered
- The Nowra Prize for Drawing.
- The Gold Coast Art Prize.
- The Muswellbrook Art Prize.
- The Robin Hood Art Prize, Eighteenth International At Competition. An award given by art critic for The Australian, Mr Laurie Thomas
- The University of Newcastle Art Prize, awarded second place 1981.