Born in Melbourne in 1955, and holder of diplomas in Fine Art and Education, high-profile artist Esther Erlich is best known for her gritty style of portraiture. In 1998 she won the prestigious Doug Moran Portrait Prize, and in 2000 the "People's Choice" Award.
She has been a finalist in the Portia Geach Memorial Award seven times and in the Archibald Prize in 2000 and 2002. Her style is raw, vital and spontaneous, yet also displays the skill and gloss of a well-seasoned artist of fifteen years standing.
It is the brilliant combination of striking, even haunting portrait-like features with the light, grace and somewhat abstract fluidity of her more decorative style, that makes her work so inspiring.
Be it in the muted haze of a retreating figure, the subtle turn of an outstretched ankle, or the provocative expression of her subject, one cannot help but recognise themselves. Erlich brings us face to face with our own reality, but softens the blow with a hint of froth and bubble. Cleverly, she manages to hold our attention with the intense stare of her subject, whilst seducing us with the sometimes frivolous but eternal search for beauty. Erlich is represented in both public and private collections nationally and abroad, including the CAE, Victoria, Performing Arts Museum, National Gallery of Victoria, ALP Building, A.C.T., and the National Library, Canberra.
Jinks Creek is proud to exclusively feature the striking art of Esther Erlich on its limited edition boutique wine labels.
