STUDIO education resource - Museums & Galleries NSW

ANNA PLATTEN
ANNA PLATTEN
ADELAIDE, SA
Anna Platten’s crowded studio in inner city Adelaide resembles the prop
room of a theatre. Costumes, furniture, drapes and bric-a-brac all vie for
space and attention. The artist in her paint-splattered coat provides the only
evidence that this is the studio of a painter.
Platten’s process is different to that of many of the artists represented in
STUDIO. In preparing to make a painting, Platten will position props and
even sew garments for her models to wear. In her own words ‘I find that
making the prop is essential, it helps me get into the mood of the painting.
It’s a bit like an actor putting on make-up. Sometimes it allows me to flesh
out an idea which is still very tenuous in my head.’
Platten sometimes depicts herself in her paintings, such as in the large
painting Myself as Madonna 2003. Many of the elements in this painting can
be found in the photograph of her studio. Platten alludes to the Christian
convention of Madonna and child paintings but adds a humorous touch with
the inclusion of the pointy bra, a reference or double entendre to pop star
Madonna.
Born in 1957, Platten juggles the demands of being a mother, a teacher and
an artist. Her paintings are frequently the stages on which the drama and
the delight of these many, often competing roles, are performed.
Explore the artist’s current work:
http://www.evabreuerartdealer.com.au/platten.html
Step into the studio
with Platten. What would you
make, assemble or perform in
her space?
Look at other examples of
Platten’s work using Google
image search – what features
are recurring? Can you see
any of her studio props in her
other paintings.
Where do you think
Ian Lloyd has placed lights
to illuminate the studio and
why?
Find photographs of
Madonna in the 1980’s to
see how Platten has been
inspired by her costume.
Make a work inspired by a
photograph of your favourite
musical artist.
Look at this work to discover props used from Platten’s studio:
http://www.unisa.edu.au/samstagmuseum/images/fullimage/support.asp
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