Cecile and Judith are gearing up for their first exhibition together. 80884 Picture: DAMJAN JANEVSKI
By VANESSA CHIRCOP
FOR long-time friends, Judith Leuenberger and Cecile Negus, having their artwork exhibited together at the Louis Joel Gallery will hold special meaning for the pair.
The exhibition will mark Cecile’s very first exhibition and Judith’s first in 10 years, but it will also mark the first time these artists have collaborated together on an art project, despite their years of friendship.
“It’s very special,” said Cecile.
The pair met in 1981, Judith had only recently moved to Melbourne from the UK and while trying to get her teaching qualifications recognised in Australia decided to become a Tupperware lady.
Cecile became Judith’s first client, throwing her first Tupperware party.
“We’ve been friends ever since,” said Judith.
Though Judith and Cecile’s work differ, their styles complement each other, with a range of natural stills and landscapes being exhibited.
Judith, from West Footscray, was an art teacher for 30 years and is now semi-retired.
She was the youngest of four daughters, all with mild to severe dyslexia.
When words failed them, art became a way for the sisters to express themselves without being afraid to make a mistake.
“As I’m getting older, I’m less frightened of the written word,” Judith said.
“I write poetry now, like I’m painting, almost like a written picture.”
For Cecile art has always been in her blood, with her father one of her earliest influences.
She too, moved to Australia from the UK where she received her first formal training.
“I absolutely love it,” she said.
The exhibition will run from 18 May to 3 June with the official opening on Sunday 20 May.
