Exhibition | Bernard Ollis OAM 'From the Inside, Looking Out'

Acclaimed artist Bernard Ollis OAM invites art lovers to experience his latest exhibition, From the Inside Looking Out, at Mitchell Fine Art in Fortitude Valley Brisbane, from May 13–31.

Known for his vibrant and dynamic depictions of life, Ollis presents a fresh collection of works that transform everyday scenes into immersive, colourful compositions.

Primarily a figurative artist, Ollis is fascinated by the human form and the spaces people inhabit. In this exhibition, his paintings distort and amplify reality through bold colours, dynamic perspectives, and intricate patterns, synthesizing multiple viewpoints into a single striking image.

‘I have always been interested in pictures within pictures. Encouraging you, the viewer, to see beyond one space and out into another. In short, from the inside, to the out’ says Ollis.

‘These artworks, have been created and inspired by visits to specific locations, imagined or seen. They are never about accurate copies, or representation, after all, that is the role of the camera.’

A British-born, Sydney-based artist, Ollis has an extensive academic and professional background, having served as the longest-standing Director of the National Art School in Sydney. His contributions to the arts were recognized in 2023 when he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to visual arts and education.

Throughout his career, Bernard Ollis has been selected several times for prestigious Australian Art Prizes including the Sulman and the Dobell Art Prize, as well as the Salon des Refuses.

His work has been acquired in collections such as the National Art Gallery of Australia, the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, Queensland Art Gallery, and the Royal College of Art UK.

Join Bernard Ollis in the gallery for an exclusive Artist Talk on Saturday, May 17, at 2:30pm, followed by drinks and a chance to connect with the artist. This is a wonderful opportunity to engage with Bernard's inspiration and techniques within his artistic practice and life. All events are free, no RSVPs required.

Art lovers can sign up to the gallery's mailing list via the website to receive information on exhibitions and events or follow the gallery on Facebook and Instagram.

Mitchell Fine Art is open 6 days a week; Monday to Friday 10am - 5.30pm and Saturday 10am - 5pm, with parking available onsite.

To view the exhibition online visit www.mitchellfineartgallery.com. To enquire phone 3254 2297.

Image: Bernard Ollis, ‘Van Gogh Hospital Room’, 152 x 183cm oil on linen (2024).