Mogo artist Ken Taber began his career as a sign writer and screen printer. In 1968, aged in his late 20’s, Ken walked away from his job and moved to Pittwater, where he painted full time from the boatsheds on the waterfront. He became well known for his oil paintings of swamps and beach scenes.
Ken is a self taught artist whose style would be described as impressionistic. Over the years, he began to build a solid reputation as a professional artist and his work has hung in many galleries around Australia.
Above: Ken Taber with his painting “River Deep Mountain High”
Ken switched to acrylic paints ten years ago which he still uses these days. “I find the acrylics faster and more forgiving then the oil paints” he said. When asked which of the old masters have influenced his painting career, he said, “The biggest influence was JMW Turner. So when I was in London for about three months, I spent a lot of time at the galleries looking at Turner’s work.”
Above: Ken in his studio
Above: Ken Taber’s painting “Storm at Sea”
Another influence is Monet, and this is strikingly evident the moment one enters his property at Mogo. Ten man made ponds teaming with lotus flowers and water lilies dot his five acre gardens, which Ken started back in 1991. Numerous water birds find sanctuary in his many subtropical water gardens. It is these scenes of water birds, misty swamps and trees that feature predominantly in his paintings. When asked what he would like to achieve next, he said, “I want to pursue this thing that is always just out of my reach.”
Above: The water lily ponds on Ken’s property
Ken has just completed four paintings which he is entering into the upcoming 32nd Annual Art and Craft Exhibition.
Above "Water Hole" by Ken Taber The 32nd Annual Art and Craft Exhibition is a judged show with major awards for sculpture, painting and craft. The public are invited to attend the official opening on Friday 30 December at 6pm and meet the artists for drinks and nibbles. The exhibition will continue daily from 10am to 4pm until 15 January 2017.
