Genesis (A&B)

Genesis (A&B) consists of eight panels: seven show the ages of life and the eighth shows rebirth. The images of a banksia flower represent the process of growth and decay are set against the changing light and colour of the sky. These prints are based on an original painting that was privately commissioned in 1976. The artist was invited to represent the ageing process, showing the continuity of life, and depicting old age as part of the life path, not separated from it.

He stated:

‘My thinking was guided by the thought […] humans are frequently represented as birds, animals, and plants. All are made of the same substance and return to that original substance. The Banksia fruit passes through definite changes in form, which clearly illustrate the life cycle.’

Frank Hodgkinson was a leading Australian artist who exhibited extensively around the world throughout his long career. In 1999, he was awarded the Order of Australia (AM) for his services to the visual arts. His work is represented in collections in Australia and overseas.