The paintings are from a series called El Bib, or Bible spelt backwards, with a cast including Jonah and the whale, Noah and his ark, Neptune, Santa and the Grim Reaper. Viewing El Bib feels like walking into a movie halfway through. From tourism possibilities at the North Pole to the eventual demise of Jonah’s marriage, the dramatic action is cuttingly hilarious.
Bob Gerrard (1928 – 2009) was born in Scotland but spent much of his adult life in Upper Hutt. He began to make art later in life after working as a carpenter, and, apart from attending the Upper Hutt Arts Society, learnt through experimentation and play.
Developed and toured by The Dowse Art Museum.This exhibition is possible through a major gift to The Dowse from the Gerrard family.
This exhibition has been generously supported by Kathleen Dorothy Kirkby Charitable Trust and Perpetual Guardian.
Photos:
Bob Gerrard - Salvation Army Band Ark, 2000
wood, oil and acrylic paint, metal
Collection of The Dowse Art Museum
Bob Gerrard - Two Mermaids On Bow Ark, 1993
wood, oil and acrylic paint, metal
Collection of The Dowse Art Museum. Gift of the Gerrard Family.
