John Olsen (1928-2023) Limited Edition Signed 1976 Etching 'Frog and the Lake' 41cm x 27cm

One of the most iconic images from John Olsen (1928-2023), this very rare limited edition etching and aquatint on artist paper is titled 'Frog and the Lake' (1976). Hand signed in pencil lower right and editioned to margin A/P (Artist Proof of edition of 60) lower left and titled lower centre. The artwork and natural art deco timber frame under new UV graded perspex are in excellent condition and ready to hang. Literature: Makin, J., McGregor. K., John Olsen Teeming with Life, Macmillan Art Publishing, Victoria, 2005, p. 52 (illus., another example). Provenance: Private collector Central Coast, NSW. 

Other Notes
Other examples of this print are held in the collections of the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra; and Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney. 

Dimensions

Image size: 41cm x 27cm 
Sheet size: 75 x 53cm
Frame size: 79cm x 57.5cm x 3cm

Bio

John Henry Olsen AO OBE (born 21 January 1928) is an Australian artist and winner of the Archibald Prize in 2005, the Wynne Prize in 1969, and he was awarded the Order of Australia. Olsen's primary subject of work is landscape and wildlife. Born in Newcastle NSW in 1928, Olsen was well known for his energetic and distinctive painting style and in particular for his lyrical depiction of the landscape. John Olsen is considered one of Australia's leading contemporary artists. His impact on Australian art extends beyond his paintings to his influence as a teacher and mentor. He studied at the National Art School in Sydney from 1947 to 1948. Olsen's early influences include European artists such as Pablo Picasso and Paul Cézanne. He was also inspired by the Australian landscape, particularly the flora and fauna, which became central themes in his work. Olsen became associated with the Heidelberg School, a movement that emphasized capturing the Australian landscape in a naturalistic manner. Over time, his style evolved beyond the Heidelberg tradition, incorporating abstraction and expressionism. Olsen traveled extensively, including living in Europe in the 1950s. His time in Spain, particularly on the island of Ibiza, had a significant impact on his art. One of Olsen's most famous works is the mural-sized painting titled "Salute to Five Bells" (1963), which pays homage to the Sydney Opera House and the poem "Five Bells" by Kenneth Slessor. Other notable works include "Summer in the You Beaut Country" (1960) and "Pond near Ourimbah" (1970). Olsen has had a notable influence on Australian art education. He taught at several institutions, including the National Art School and the University of New South Wales. Olsen has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including being appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2001 for his services to the visual arts. In his later years, Olsen continued to paint and exhibit. His works are known for their vibrant colors, bold brushstrokes, and a dynamic sense of movement. John Olsen's art is celebrated for its distinctive style, capturing the essence of the Australian landscape while incorporating elements of abstraction and expressionism. His works are held in major galleries and collections both in Australia and internationally.