Imagine discovering a hidden treasure in your home, a piece of history worth a fortune! The Royal Society of Tasmania is on a quest to find lost paintings by the colonial-era artist William Charles Piguenit, and they believe some could be hiding in plain sight. But here's the twist: these artworks might be hanging in your living room or tucked away in your attic!
Born in Hobart in the mid-19th century, Piguenit is a renowned Australian artist, yet his name remains relatively unknown to the general public. His paintings, however, have fetched over $300,000 at auction, and experts believe there are many more out there, just waiting to be uncovered. And this is where you come in!
The society's plea to Tasmanians: Check your walls, rummage through your cupboards, and keep an eye out for any paintings or sketches that might be Piguenit's work. He was a master of landscapes, often depicting the rugged beauty of Tasmania's wilderness. And while his oil paintings are held in museums, his pencil and watercolor sketches could be anywhere.
The intriguing part? Many of these sketches were created during wilderness trips, and artists often exchanged paintings while working. So, a family heirloom or a forgotten op-shop find could be the missing piece of this artistic puzzle. But it's not just sketches; Dr. Anita Hansen reveals that at least three oil paintings have 'half-disappeared,' and their whereabouts are a mystery.
The search intensifies: Ross Large, an expert on the matter, suggests that the western coast of Tasmania might hold the key. Piguenit's interactions with locals could have led to his artworks finding their way into private hands. And the excitement doesn't end there! A roadshow on March 7th aims to identify these hidden gems, with art expert Warwick Oakman assessing potential Piguenit pieces for just $5.
But here's where it gets controversial: Identifying a Piguenit is not as easy as it seems. He often omitted his signature and the painting's title, making authentication a challenge. And this has led to some surprising discoveries, like the recent revelation of a Piguenit oil painting worth over $100,000, owned by someone unaware of its true value.
The exhibition: Coinciding with the roadshow is the 'Hidden Treasures: Walk to the West' exhibition, showcasing Piguenit's works from his 1887 journey. It's a chance to immerse yourself in his artistic journey and appreciate the very landscapes that inspired him. And for those who want to delve deeper, an excursion retracing his steps is also on offer.
The enduring legacy: Piguenit's artworks are not just valuable; they are powerful. Dr. Hansen describes them as 'atmospheric,' capturing the essence of Tasmania's beauty. And with a dozen of his works on display alongside other 19th-century artists, it's an opportunity to celebrate a forgotten master.
So, will you answer the call and embark on this artistic treasure hunt? The Royal Society of Tasmania awaits your discoveries, and who knows, you might just uncover a piece of Australian art history!
