Featured Artist

AMY LAKIDES (1919-2009)

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Our Featured Artist holds a very special place in the history of the West Australian Guild of China Painters. Not only was she aninternationally recognized china painter and Guild life member, Amy was the driving force behind the creation of the Guild in 1964 and indeed was its Foundation President.

Amy was born and grew up in Perth, Western Australia and attended painting classes at the studio of Flora Landells. Flora was an iconic painter of her day and was destined to become the first Patroness of the Guild. Amy attended classes at Flora's School for 18 months and during this time she also began teaching.

Amy held her first solo exhibition at the Williams Road Studio when her son Tony was only 10, with Flora Landells opening the proceedings.  During this time Amy travelled to Singapore several times to give workshops and to study at the Sun Yee Art Academy and also travelled extensively to other States and New Zealand giving seminars.

Left:
Iris Tile first fire

Right:
Blue Leschenaultia Coffee Set by
Amy Lakides

In 1960 after hearing news that an International china painting organisation was to be set up, Amy travelled to Los Angeles and became the first person from another country to attend the convention.  

The I.C.P.T.O. (the International China Painting Teachers Organisation) was formed and Amy became the 1st Regional Chairman for Australia and New Zealand.  It was around this time that Amy was instrumental in the formation of the West Australian Guild of China Painters and became the foundation President.

left: Presidents welcome letter, Guild's first newsletter

right: Amy Lakides in the UK - 1968

Amy introduced the 'Wipe out Method' of painting and her talent with a 1" brush was legendary. She once when describing her painting method said, "The guidelines should be in your head, hence the reason for knowing your subject. Afterwards comes the application of paint and the forming of flowers or fruits by wiping out lights then applying shadows to make form."

In 1970 Amy made her home in Atlanta, Georgia USA but returned every two years to Australia.  On these visits Amy would be warmly received at Guild Meetings where she would generously demonstrate her skills to captivated members.

Amy once wrote to a member "I enjoy every season as it comes and thank God for the privilege."
.................Amy Lakides passed away in Atlanta, Georgia U.S.A. on 5th February, 2009

Fruit Tile painted 2006

 

above right: Spider Orchid Cup
Saucer and teaplate

 

right: Rose study 1975

In 1972 Amy Published two 'Lakides Sketchbooks'
and in 1975 a series of coloured studies. She also
worked in in acrylics, watercolours and oils.

Photographs in Gallery 4 are © with all rights reserved.
Refer to sub-pages for copyright details.

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