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TAMARA BEKIER
BETWEEN WORLDS

Author: Aurora De Leucio

"Paint can flow like a river, it can be gentle, it can be violent, and in its arrangement, it can twist and turn to mirror my moods, my personality." Tamara Bekier: Between Worlds is a book which documents the exhibition bearing the same title and presented at the Art Gallery of Ballarat in the artist's ninety-second year. The artwork for the exhibition spans four decades of prolific creative output. Throughout this period the artist has focused on giving expression to her memories and experiences of the displaced, the dispossessed and the plight of women - and her intimate understanding of the extraordinary resilience of the human spirit. In recording the exhibition, this book describes the artist's life and art: recounting her survival as a child and adolescent in the Second World War, her hardships as an immigrant, and her influences, approaches and processes as an artist, beginning her life as a painter only in the second half of her life. This book offers the reader an opportunity to understand Tim Costello's appreciation of Bekier as an artist who, through her art, has not only brought beauty to the world but brought about her own emotional healing; and affirms Milovoy Micich's understanding of Bekier as an artist "deserving of every accolade, a true master artist, and a living treasure".

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BOOK LAUNCH

A packed audience gathered to celebrate the book launch of 'Tamara Bekier: Between Worlds', accompanied by words and music. Reading from the book, the artist's son, Paul Bekier, shared Bekier's insights: "You will find a piece of me woven into all my artworks. I consider elements of my past, present, and thoughts as threads. These threads manifest symbolically in my work as patterns, lines, and colours. My paintings are a testament to resilience, hope, and triumph over adversity."

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Australian composer and pianist, Luke Howard, graced the event with his exceptional music, captivating the audience with his performances. Described as "absolutely heavenly", Howard's beautiful and enthralling compositions resonate deeply with Bekier's artistic vision. Howard's music leads audiences on unexpected journeys, stirring emotions and evoking contemplation, much like Bekier's art. The audience was spellbound by Howard's atmospheric piano playing and the renditions of Bekier's poetry and life story by Paul Bekier and renowned author Rozzi Bazzani.

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The event marked the publication of this book, which chronicles Bekier's life and art. Authored by her fellow artist and daughter-in-law, Aurora De Leucio, the book offers insights into Bekier's journey, her inspirations, and the profound impact of her art on those who encounter it. The book is now available online.

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