About

Biography:

1973: Born in Sydney, Australia. I’d like to say it was at a Rolling Stones gig, and for a little while there was a possibility that I might have been, but it ended up happening in a hospital. Not nearly as interesting as a Stones gig, but I’m still pretty glad it happened.

1974-1990: Nothing happens that is really of a great deal of interest: a lot of growing out of clothes, socially awkward stops and starts, and various adolescent rites of passage. School was sometimes interesting, and at other times painful. It comes to my attention that an early interest in mathematics is not only less interesting than originally presumed but also social suicide. Gradually this interest is replaced by more visually creative pursuits, which doesn’t really affect my social status that much. Generally though, it is relatively happy time.

1991-1993: Bachelor of Arts in Visual Arts from the University of Western Sydney (Nepean). Painted in acrylics, oils and enamels, and drew in ink and charcoal, not because I was particularly good at it but more because I had no idea what else I should be doing there. Did pretty well all things considered, graduating with a few distinctions. Over the years that follow there will be a repeating feeling that I could have taken advantage of the time there just a little bit better.

1994-1996: Get on with the business of living. Had quite a bit of fun doing it.

1996: Whilst living in Katoomba in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney, make my first collage. I still have it. It’s pretty crap looking at it now, but at that moment the world shook and the booming voice of God was heard. Nothing was ever to be the same again. Began acquiring a ridiculous amount of magazines.

1997: Returned to university to complete my honours, swearing that this time I will capitalise on all the opportunities that are presented to me. Spent two months in the Uni bar and then drop out.

2002-2006: Move to Melbourne. The collages are getting not only better, but bigger as well. I get myself a studio to so that I can start using a larger range of lacquers, solvents and adhesives without dying from inhaling the fumes while I sleep. Have a few exhibitions. Start sending work to group shows overseas.

2007: Move back to Sydney. Write this bio. You read it. I think that pretty much brings us up to date.

For more information, please visit: http://www.joellambeth.com