Leon Pericles Australian, b. 1949
“The spirit of Widji emerges throughout Pericles’ work and using the myths of Widji he distils the essence of the Australian bush, all imbued with the whimsy and enchantment which are his trademark.”
Born in Western Australia in 1949 of Greek and Anglo-lrish ancestry, Leon spent his formative years in the outback town of Meekatharra where his father was a hotel licensee. His interest in art began early.
Leon is acclaimed nationally and internationally and has held many solo exhibitions throughout Australia and overseas since 1969. His work is held in numerous major public and private collections. His witty and unique views of Australia, combined with his outstanding talent have earned him the reputation of being one of Australia’s most prominent artists.
His great love for the outback of Australia shows clearly in his work and his imaginary town of Widjimorphup features prominently. As one noted critic has said. “The spirit of Widji emerges throughout Pericles’ work and using the myths of Widji he distils the essence of the Australian bush, all imbued with the whimsy and enchantment which are his trademark.
A fascination for the old and beautiful will find Leon in auction rooms and antiquarian book shops pursuing interesting objets d’art. Music is an intrinsic part of his life, which is punctuated by activities such as windsurfing, diving, or tending his exquisite garden. Whenever possible, the Pericles family travel – often to far-flung favourite camping spots or to exhibitions in other parts of the world .
Leon is acclaimed nationally and internationally and has held many solo exhibitions throughout Australia and overseas since 1969. His work is held in numerous major public and private collections. His witty and unique views of Australia, combined with his outstanding talent have earned him the reputation of being one of Australia’s most prominent artists.
