American Dreams
BHP Community Trust Gallery
11 December 1999 - 9 January 2000
Free admission

In the early twentieth century, artists who wanted to gain further training and experience often travelled to European centres like Paris and London, to study at first hand the artistic traditions that were continuing to shape Western art.

However, after World War II, as America consolidated its position as an expanding political, industrial and cultural power, the perceived centre of the art world shiften from Europe to the United States of America.

The excitement, glamour and intensity of cities like New York and Los Angeles attracted artists. This exhibition, 'American Dreams' focuses on artists who travelled to the USA in the post-war period. In particular it will feature Brett Whiteley's The American Dream 1969 and David Hockney's portfolio of etchings A rake's progress,documenting his travels in America. Work by Western Australian artists including Tania Ferrier and Thomas Hoareau, who have had residencies in America, are also displayed.

This is a rare opportunity to see Whiteley's masterpiece which will be on view to 9 January only.