Anthony Lister, the celebrated Australian painter and installation artist known for his provocative blend of high and lowbrow culture, is set to unveil his latest body of work in a highly anticipated exhibition in Sydney. Lister’s artistry transcends conventional boundaries, drawing inspiration from street art, expressionism, and contemporary youth culture. His work has garnered international acclaim, with solo exhibitions across Australia, the United States, Europe, and the UK.
Lister’s new exhibition promises a visceral exploration of modern society’s complexities, juxtaposing the allure and grotesquery of Western pop culture. Through a dynamic fusion of “bad” painting techniques and the raw energy of graffiti, Lister captures the zeitgeist with explosive figurative artworks that challenge societal norms and provoke introspection.
“I am thrilled to present my latest creations to the Sydney audience,” said Anthony Lister. “This collection delves into themes of spirituality and cultural heritage, offering a visceral commentary on our contemporary existence.”
Lister’s work has been described as a bold narrative on societal evolution, drawing viewers into a dialogue on identity, perception, and the human condition. His mastery of diverse mediums—from traditional canvas paintings to immersive installations and multimedia experiences—promises a multi-dimensional encounter for art enthusiasts and cultural critics alike.
DT 500 ZINE: –Deep admirers of your artistry, we at Downtown 500 Zine are eager to delve into your backstory. Could you share with us some insights into your upbringing and early influences?
ANTHONY: I was born in Australia and raised by a single mum. I am the middle boy of three.
“Comic books, skateboarding, first job at 10.”
DT 500 ZINE:- How did you initially discover and nurture your creative impulses, shaping them into the distinctive artistic voice that defines your work today?
ANTHONY: – Through years of boredom.
“Scratching, which turned into doodling, which turned into sketching.”
DT 500 ZINE: –Anthony, when it comes to the dichotomy of fine art versus lowbrow, where do you stand? How do you perceive the legacy and impact of lowbrow art in today’s cultural landscape?
ANTHONY: –
“In my mind, there are 2 art worlds, the art world where art is made and the art world where work is seen to have been made. I prefer to exist in the art world where art is made.”
DT 500 ZINE: – Could you please clarify the context or provide more details about what you mean by “What is your state?” It seems ambiguous in this conversation.
ANTHONY: – My mess is my message.
“It takes a lot of balls to cut your own di** off. I’m not trying to change the world; I’m just reacting to a world trying to change me.”
DT 500 ZINE: – Any advice on how to enhance one’s inspiration?
ANTHONY: – First of all, I’d like to mention Lucian Freud and how beautiful a painter he was. Lucian did a lot of paintings, and Lucian inspired me. Secondly, I’d like to suggest Chuck Close and his statement where he says:
“Inspiration is for beginners; the rest just get to work.”
DT 500 ZINE: – What might be the subject of your latest endeavour?
ANTHONY: Ouija boards have always freaked me out, so I decided to make a body of work about having experience talking with the spirits myself.
DT 500 ZINE: – On what themes does your work primarily centre?
ANTHONY: My work focuses on concepts of contemporary philosophy based on observations of my surroundings and society.
“I’m interested in analogies and, more importantly, communicating.”
DT 500 ZINE: – What grand ambitions do you harbour for the future of your illustrious career, and how do you envision your work evolving in the coming years?
ANTHONY: – To echo eternity is obviously every painter’s dream.
“More directly, I would like to be invited to install large-scale bronzes in the public domain.”
DT 500 ZINE: – What forthcoming ventures and aspirations are you most eagerly anticipating in the near future?
ANTHONY: After my Ouija board show next week, I will do some public commissions and then travel to Europe for a residency later this year; a show in London and France is planned. My website is expanding, I’m moving studio, a movie is being made, and I’m working with holographic. That will keep me busy.
DT 500 ZINE: – Stay industrious, Anthony. Many thanks for your time, and we look forward to our next encounter!
ANTHONY LISTER:
“THE FIRST RULE OF PAINTING IS TO TAKE EVERYONE ELSE OUT OF THE EQUATION. I AM THE VIEWER, SO I DON’T UNDERESTIMATE MY VIEWERS. THEY SEE EVERYTHING, AND I JUST HAVE TO ASSUME THAT THEY ARE ME. I CAN’T PAINT FOR ANYONE ELSE. IT’S ALL ABOUT HAVING THE COURAGE TO SAY THIS IS FINISHED AND THEY HAVE TO KNOW THAT I AM THE BOSS OF PAINTING. It’s LIKE BEING A SOLDIER BECAUSE I HAVE TO BE HARD AS FUCK TO FALL IN LOVE WITH THESE THINGS AND LET THEM GO.“
#LOWBROWO!
Lister’s interview with Downtown 500 Zine offers a rare glimpse into the personal motivations behind his acclaimed career. From early scribbles to international acclaim, Lister’s journey exemplifies a relentless pursuit of creativity and a commitment to challenging artistic norms.
#dt500mag 