The tragic life of French sculptor, Camille Claudel is celebrated in a new production at the Sydney Opera House this month. Her prodigious talents went mostly unrecognised during her lifetime in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in Paris. Renowned sculptor, Auguste Rodin became her teacher and lover. Her best known work is the moving piece The Waltz, created in 1889 and inspired by her blossoming love affair with Rodin.
Christopher Stollery, who is playing the role of Rodin, talks to Paul about this amazing fusion of storytelling, dance, sculpture and music. Writer Wendy Beckett directs the production with Imogene Sage in the title role. The play also includes dancers who portray the artworks and propel the narrative through choreography by the legendary Meryl Tankard.
Claudel opens at the Playhouse, Sydney Opera House on Friday 23 April and runs to 9 May.
And we repeat one of the best interviews from 2019 when Anthony spoke to contemporary artist, Shaun Gladwell. At the time there was a major survey of Gladwell’s works at the MCA that included video, drawing, painting, sculpture, augmented and visual reality.
Shaun talks about his journey from a young student to one of the most recognised contemporary artists in the country. His success began with the release of his video work, Storm Sequence 2000, featuring Shaun riding a skateboard at Bondi Beach with a storm brewing in the background. He also talks about his time as official war artist in Afghanistan.
Arts Wednesday 21 April 1030-1200.