Barrie Humphries' Artwork: Hidden Side of An Australian Icon

BARRY HUMPHRIES ARTWORK A HIDDEN SIDE OF AN AUSSIE ICON

Sixty years ago, Barry Humphries walked into an antiques shop in the Melbourne suburb of Armadale.  He purchased two engravings by 18th-century artist, George Baxter.

"He also left with something he probably never anticipated," says Edward Clark with a laugh. "Me, as a new friend!"

So began an enduring relationship that was beloved by both men - Humphries, the internationally-acclaimed artist, satirist, writer and performer, and Ed Clark, a successful gallery owner and long-time supporter of the arts.

The relationship was, by all accounts, mutually rewarding.  That is now on display with the auction of artwork by Leski Auctions, most of which was gifted by Barry Humphries to Ed and his family.

Ed was with Humphries on the day before he died, in April 2022.  It was a bittersweet farewell, not only to Barry but to his alter egos, Dame Edna Everage, Sir Les Patterson, Sandy Stone and Lance Boyle.

In those intervening years, Ed shared a special bond with the famous Australian. He was also the beneficiary of many gifts from Humphries, including artwork created by Humphries, or works about Humphries that were created by others.

"I believe it reveals a side of Barry Humphries that too few were aware of," Ed says. 

"Barry was a very talented man, but he downplayed his love of painting, referring to himself as a 'Sunday painter'.  In truth it was his passion, particularly landscapes and especially beach scenes.

"He spent time with my family at Lorne where we had a cottage, and where a number of his most important works were created."

Ed decided to sell the bulk of his collection, now that he has made the decision to downsize.  Some pieces will remain with him and his family, including some very personal letters from Humphries, while a prized self-portrait in oil will be donated to the National Portrait Gallery, "once I depart this mortal coil."

Lead auctioneer, Charles Leski, said a Christie's auction of Barry Humphries' personal art collection held earlier this year in London, achieved a remarkable outcome of just over $9 million, far exceeding pre-sale estimates. 

"Ed set the estimates for this auction quite modestly," Charles Leski said.  "He wants the sale to be a celebration of Barry Humphries' life and of their very close relationship.  He wants others to share in that." 

Among the 23 lots for sale are three oil paintings by Humphries, including Lot 1200, painted in the coastal town of Lorne, 140 kms south-west of Melbourne. The oil on canvas is signed and titled lower left.  The pre-sale estimate for the framed work is $6,000 - $10,000.

There is also a work on paper signed by celebrated artist, Charles Blackman (Lot 1207). It has a pre-sale estimate of $5,000 - $8,000.

Among the lots are photographs by Rennie Ellis and Lewis Morley, theatrical posters, silkscreens and watercolours.  Pre-sale estimates start from $200.

The auction will be held on May 24 & 25 from 10.00am.  Details can be found at www.leski.com.au

Lot 1200: 'Lorne', 1981

Pre-sale estimate:  $6,000 - $10,000

Lot 1207: 'Blackman', 1963-64 (Paris)

Pre-sale estimate:  $5,000 - $8,000

About Leski Auctions
Leski Auctions was established in 1973. Today, it is regarded as one of Australia's leading auctioneers of Sporting Memorabilia, Australian Art & Antiques, Collectibles and World Philately.  Among the many significant collections that Leski Auctions has been privileged to sell are those of Shirley Strickland, Ron Clarke, Sir Reginald Ansett and former RSL President, Bruce Ruxton.  It has sold more Brownlow Medals and 'baggy green' caps than any other auction house in the world.

Charles Leski is a registered valuer for the Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts' Cultural Gifts Program.  He is also the valuer of the displayed items at the National Sports Museum at the MCG, Melbourne.  

The company is located at 727-729 High Street Armadale, Victoria 3143 Australia.  
Tel +61 3 8539 6150/+61 412 053 692 and www.leski.com.au