Noosa Regional Gallery is set to unveil Juan Ford: A Survey, a major exhibition spanning two decades of work by one of Australia’s most acclaimed contemporary painters. Curated by Dr Vincent Alessi, the exhibition brings together paintings that chart Ford’s evolving exploration of the relationship between humans and the natural world.
Ford’s practice blends technical virtuosity with deep intellectual inquiry, drawing from the Australian landscape tradition, art history, and broader existential themes. Since completing his Fine Art studies at RMIT University in 2001, the Melbourne-born artist has staged more than 35 solo exhibitions and featured in major institutions including the National Portrait Gallery, NGV, and QAGOMA. His works are held in national collections such as Artbank, the NGV, and the Parliament of Victoria, and he has received multiple accolades, including the Fletcher Jones Contemporary Art Prize.
“Visitors will see how Ford’s meticulously crafted imagery has shifted over the years- rich in symbolism, precision, and conceptual depth, to address urgent contemporary concerns from environmental vulnerability to our place within the natural order,” says Noosa Regional Gallery Director Michael Brennan.
Ford describes his process as “a slow form of thought itself,” where observation, contemplation, and resistance are filtered through paint into works that invite reflection and provoke conversation.
Juan Ford: A Survey is a rare opportunity to experience the breadth of Ford’s practice in one place, offering insight into how a singular vision can evolve to meet the challenges of a changing world.
Masterclass with Juan Ford
As part of the Gallery’s 2025 Masterclass Series, Ford will lead Precision in Colour- a hands-on workshop on Sunday, 24 August 2025, where participants will explore his nuanced oil-painting techniques and colour-matching strategies.
Juan Ford: A Survey will run from 23 August to 12 October. Entry to the exhibition is free. Visit: www.noosaregionalgallery.com.au
A special in conversation event will be on Friday 22 August, 4.30 – 5.30pm, followed by the exhibition opening event from 5.30 – 7.30pm. Free tickets via the gallery website.
