Des Phillips

DES PHILLIPS – ART AUSTRALIA
(1950 – 2001)


Des Phillips was inspired by the beauty and colour of Australia. This inspiration was clearly seen in his dynamic and unique style which richly contributed to the world of Australian art. He was born in Canberra and grew up there. After leaving school he became a self taught sign-writer and at the age of 19 was contracted by Tooth and Co. Brewery to do signage in country areas of NSW.

Some fifteen years later Des decided to move to the coastal area of Batemans Bay. It was only after him suffering a serious illness in 1993 that he decided to concentrate on painting and took up art full time. At his first exhibition he sold a total of 41 of his works. Sales flourished with further exhibitions in Sydney (3), Melbourne, Canberra and Batemans Bay.

In November 1995 he was invited to demonstrate his art in public. This was followed by further exhibitions and invitations to show his art in England, USA and Japan, where some of his works already were displayed.

Des’ depiction of townships, landscapes, cricket and character scenes, as well as his truly unique Aboriginal figures, stand out in galleries and homes throughout Australia and around the world. His personal wish was to be recognized worldwide for his unique style and use of colour, co-ordination and contrast, and to have his paintings seen and appreciated by those who enjoy good art.

I first met Des in 1997 and from the first moment I laid eyes on his works I was deeply affected and felt the warm passion of his painting. It was his reflection of the outback combined with the indigenous people and the sun which touched me most. Over the years I came to see Des evolve into a great artist, even as his health declined.

To me there was a special aura about Des – I found him to be warm and compassionate, and incredibly informative. He was always obliging and happy to explain the stories related to his paintings. I felt a deep spiritual link with him and one day decided to acknowledge this connection with him.

I have never forgotten Des’ reply and what he went on to say to me. “I wasn’t always this nice to people Mem, and it is unfortunate that it’s only now that I have discovered that there truly are a lot of wonderful people in our world and it is only because of what has transformed from my illness that has helped me see the bigger picture.”

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