Philippe Le Miere’s ‘Chasing Shadows’ fuses two iconic representations of children in Australian art history – John Brack’s ‘The Chase’ (1959) and Charles Blackman’s ‘The Shadow’ (1953). In his painting, Brack captures his three daughters chasing one another; in Blackman’s painting, a lone schoolgirl walks with her head hung low.

In their work, Blackman and Brack both gave voice to the emotional undercurrents of postwar Melbourne, its prickling unease and alienation. They set up haunting urban sets, populated by children and shadows. Blackman’s schoolgirls cast long, melancholic shadows, while Brack’s children are backed by a short shadow, anxious and abrupt.

Le Miere’s artistic philosophy revolves around exploring metaphor and juxtaposing familiar elements in unexpected configurations in order to create novel interpretations and new significance. Like a chameleon of cultural icons, the artist deftly navigates these elements, infusing his work with fresh perspectives.

At once an ode to two greats of Australian art history, compositional remix and mediation on the symbolism of children, ‘Chasing Shadows’ will enliven collectors of Le Mieres unique vision, enthusiasts of postmodern art, and those intrigued by imaginative and innovative concepts.

Philippe LE MIERE (1975 - )
'Chasing shadows' 2024
acrylic on canvas
Image Size: 76 x 102 cm
Dimensions: 76 x 102 x 5 cm
Signed: Signed lower right Le Miere, inscribed verso Philippe Le Miere, title and date
Comes with Letter of Provenance
Condition: excellent 
(c) The Artist or Assignee