The most recent visit I made to the National Art School was back in August 2023. At that time, I was still at St Vincent’s Hospital, recovering from my below-the-knee amputation. It was before I had my prosthetic leg, and I was still in a wheelchair.
At the time, there were significant risks for me in leaving the hospital, and so I needed special permission from my specialist. Though the gallery is only metres away from the hospital, it was still a significant trip for me and my friend Kate. She was, herself, recovering from some back pain, and it didn’t help that I was in a wheelchair. Although it was exhausting, I had the time of my life. https://jamesobrien.id.au/2023/08/exhibition-opening-in-a-wheelchair/
Today, I returned to the NAS to attend the annual Graduate Exhibition. Upon reaching the front desk, I told the attendant of the immense joy I felt, being able to make it it to the gallery, using public transport, unassisted. This, by the way, was one of the explicit goals in my rehabilitation plan.
With only a handful of people present at the gallery today, I loved the opportunity to take a leisurely look around things.
Among the exhibited pieces, these three stand out as my favorites.
Wonderful works of art. Thanks for the tip. I’ll put the NAS on my list for when I come up to Sydney for the Biennale. Hope you are well James. Terrific to know you are out and about.
As well as the art, the NAS has wonderful historic buildings.