BEN GUTHLEBEN

ABOUT BEN GUTHLEBEN

Born:  Adelaide, 1961. Lives and works in Sydney. 

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Ben Guthleben’s painting practice focuses on portraiture, with themes of abstraction, “disrupted realism” and corruption. Ideas explored include power and status, patriarchy, capitalism, masculinity, and hubris. His references are art historical and contemporary. Drawing on influences from Bacon, Auerbach and other non-realist painters, Guthleben’s portraiture relies upon a corruption of surface, bringing into question ideas of status, superficiality and appearance. The resulting works asks for a visceral, not just an intellectual response.

Guthleben has developed his practice during, and in response to, a long corporate career. He has undertaken classes and short courses at the Willoughby Arts Centre, Julian Ashton and the National Art School, among others.