Cheryle Bannon
Fitzroy Library Exhibition Space
25 October - 20 December 2008
Grace
acrylic and mixed media works on canvas


Angel Light, Acrylic on canvas, 60 x 46 cm

Grace, Cheryle’s exhibition of 16 paintings in acrylics, depicted a series of angels, each with his or her role or function and with accompanying poem. Her work, Cheryle wrote, is about the spiritual journey, with angels and guides as her partners along the creative path. “Angels and guides focus our attention on the flow of life and how we move through our world. The angels reach beyond the edges into our world and we are offered support and guidance.”
Grace was one of the angels in the exhibition. A gentle creature with long flowing locks, dressed and aglow with pink, she enclosed a smaller image of herself bestowing a gift or blessing to a kneeling girl. “Grace”, Cheryle wrote, “is the undefined gift that allows. It is the possibilities; the hope that is gifted. There is no way to earn this gift and yet it is there.”
Celestine, the Angel of Resilience, granted strength and courage. This work also incorporated mixed media, adding texture and depth to her robes. Michael, with starry blue robe and piercing blue eyes, brandished a glowing sword - more a spiritual or magical item than a weapon, a symbol perhaps of protection. He was portrayed as a protector and as the “Guardian of light”, symbolised by the radiant ball he held. Angel Light, supporting and nurturing, held a mother and child, supported by a smaller version of herself which formed part of her gown - a lovely, joyous work.


Michael, Acrylic on canvas, 95 x 45 cm

I also particularly liked Earth Angel with its accompanying poem:

“Cradled in arms,
Gently embace,
You’re my delight,
My sentinel safe,
Watching the dreamer,
Encircle the world,
Blessings surrounded
Gifting Grace.”


In her textural red gown with blue mantle, outstretched white wings and crown of stars, she cradled planet Earth in her gentle embrace. I enjoyed these sensitive and charming works, and the portrayal of the different characters.

Review by Cressida Fox