In the week following Saturday, February 15, Jenny Rickards on her own initiative extracted a list of 11 members living in areas likely to be affected by bushfires, and circulated it. I have made calls to all, plus one other, to ascertain if they have been directly affected, and whether they needed any help. In 11 cases I was able to speak to the members or a near relative. Three reported that they were not at risk. Eight reported fires had been close by, and in some cases they had been saved by a wind change. Five had to leave their houses for a day, and one had been unable to leave. No one had lost their house. All were safe and are prepared for further bad fire days, and have alternative accommodation possibilities. Several quoted the generous help available, and all appreciated the support.
The Herring Island exhibition has been successful in displaying our work to an appreciative audience as well as returning an estimated surplus for the ASV with six items sold. The exhibition had to be closed on the final Saturday due to closure of Victorian national parks.
Michael Meszaros gave a fascinating review of the development of his work over time at the first monthly meeting of members of the year on 13 February. What I particularly enjoyed were the explanations of the background and underlying concepts for his work. It is all very well to say “Let the viewer put his own interpretation on my work”, but the result may be a total lack of understanding, which is a shame if effort has been put into a key idea or concept. Michael’s explanations enable the viewer to share his concepts, ideas, and humour. Subsequent discussion with him disclosed how everything is carefully planned, including checks with the foundry and basic critical path techniques on larger works. He has deliberately targeted reliability, and asserts he has never exceeded an agreed budget or missed an agreed deadline.
Members are reminded of the forthcoming Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, coordinated this year by Patrick Culshaw, and asked to contribute their works to this exciting outdoor exhibition.
Geoff Williams, Acting President
We do know that Bruno Torfs' Sculpture Garden in Marysville was pretty much destroyed in the fire – a great loss amongst losses. Ed.
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