Step into the vibrant world of Ken Done Gallery. Located in The Rocks Sydney this gallery showcases the prolific career of Ken Done. His iconic imagery is instantly recognizable. Bright colours dominate his paintings. They depict Australian landmarks. Ken Done’s simple style belies his serious artistic intent. Art critic John McDonald noted Done’s dedication to his art.
Ken Done’s journey began in Sydney’s northern suburbs. He left school at 14 to study at the National Art School. He later worked for J. Walter Thompson in New York and London. He returned to Sydney to pursue painting full-time in 1975. His first solo exhibition was in 1980. Since then he has held over 100 exhibitions globally.
His work for Expo 88 in Brisbane is legendary. The colourful Children of the World facade was a highlight. The large alphabet blocks at the entrance were hugely popular. These have since been restored. A major retrospective of Done’s work was held at the Powerhouse Museum in 1994. His work has appeared on everything from T-shirts to the cover of Japanese magazines.
Ken Done’s design company with his wife Judy was a huge success. They started with small runs of T-shirts. The company won a major award in 1993. Done’s art has adorned countless products. It’s part of everyday Australian life.
His artistic contributions extend beyond commercial success. He’s been a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. He’s a recipient of the Order of Australia. He’s also been recognized for his contribution to Australian tourism. However he wasn’t afraid to defend his work. He famously sued the band TISM for appropriating his style.
The Ken Done Gallery stands as a testament to a remarkable artist. His colourful legacy captures the spirit of Australia. It celebrates his artistic vision and his entrepreneurial spirit. His distinctive style has brought joy and recognition to Australia. The gallery offers a vibrant and unforgettable experience. Visit the Ken Done Gallery to appreciate the artist’s unique contribution to Australian art.