Wagner Contemporary is pleased to be debuting Brisbane-based artist Nick Olsen in Sydney, with his exhibition Over the Hills and Far Away. In his new body of work Olsen explores the prominence of ‘escapism’ within the national psyche, and how the ‘holiday house’ is emblematic of the Australian experience of – and relation to – the sea-change, the tree-change and the importance of tranquillity and our natural environment to self. This particular theme is an extension of the artist’s fascination with the concept of ‘house’ as a caricature.

Olsen’s bold use of high-key colour and geometric application of paint shows a clear departure from the modern conventions of landscape painting and presenting us with a uniquely contemporary style. Natural perspective is used to situate viewers within these seemingly ‘ordinary’ suburban scenes, inviting contemplation of past thoughts, feelings and memories. This sense of familiarity is furthered by Olsen’s masterful portrayal of light and shade, enhancing the filmic quality of his work.