Institutional Acquisition & Loan
Two Scientist Series portraits are currently offered to universities, research institutions, and public collections: The Observer of Dark Matter (Professor Elisabetta Barberio) and The Observer of Cosmic Expansion (Professor Brian Schmidt AC). This page sets out the terms in full, so it can be forwarded internally as a single document.
What is offered
Each portrait places a leading Australian scientist inside the instrument and landscape of their life's work, painted in oil at 180 × 120 cm from sittings conducted on site. The first work in the series was acquired by its subject, Dr Alan Finkel AC, Australia's former Chief Scientist. Works are available either by acquisition or by long-term loan, and a loan can convert to an acquisition at any time.
Long-term loan
- Term: 24 months, renewable by agreement.
- Fee: None. There is no loan fee.
- Title: Retained by the artist for the duration of the loan.
- Costs: The institution covers one-way freight and insurance at an agreed value.
- Termination: Either party may end the loan on 60 days' notice.
- Reproduction: Rights granted for institutional, non-commercial use with credit.
- Conversion: The loan may convert to purchase at the price fixed at loan commencement.
Acquisition
- Price: AUD $22,500 per portrait at the published rate. An institutional acquisition rate is available on enquiry.
- Payment: Can be structured across financial years, or in instalments, to suit collection budgeting.
- Included: The stretched, varnished work, delivered and documented as set out below.
What comes with the work
- High-resolution images cleared for institutional use.
- A written catalogue entry suitable for use as a wall label.
- A condition report and full provenance.
- An artist talk at no charge.
- Attendance at any launch or unveiling, at the artist's cost.
Practicalities
- Wall space: Each portrait is 180 cm high × 120 cm wide; allow a minimum wall of approximately 260 × 200 cm for comfortable viewing distance.
- Weight and fixings: Stretched canvas on timber frame; hangs on standard heavy-duty picture fixings (split batten or two-point security hangers). Exact weight supplied with the condition report.
- Environment: Standard conditions for oil on canvas: stable temperature and humidity, out of direct sunlight.
Documentation
A full catalogue of available works, the artist CV, a written loan agreement, individual work sheets, condition reports and high-resolution images cleared for institutional use are all provided on request. Write to the studio and they will be sent through directly.
Contact
Samuel Morrow
samuelmorrow@observerism.com
0410 644 852
Studio: Surry Hills, Sydney. Viewings welcome by appointment.