Bernhard Sachs: After History

Bernhard Sachs (1954-2022) was a Melbourne artist and academic whose expansive practice encompassed drawing collage painting photography performance and sculpture. Sachs whose German father migrated to South Australia after World War II was deeply informed by European art culture and philosophy interweaving it with autobiography to produce a singular oeuvre which interrogated history to understand its role in shaping the present. 

Bernhard Sachs: After History focuses on works drawn from the late artist’s studio. Rather than a traditional retrospective the exhibition seeks to highlight Sachs’ unique process of retuning to and reworking existing works sometimes over a period of years. In addition a parallel display of works by artists whom Sachs educated and mentored will acknowledge his formative influence on several generations of Melbourne visual artists.

A long-time resident of St Kilda Sachs exhibited at Linden New Art on numerous occasions as well as serving on the organisation’s board. After History marks the first major exhibition of Sachs’ work since his passing and is a timely opportunity to consider his significant contribution to Australian art and arts education.

Host or Publisher fiona brook