Pro Hart:
Today we honour and remember Pro Hart, and the incredible contributions he made to Australian culture throughout his lifetime. The 28th of March marks the 13th year since his untimely death from Motor Neurone Disease, yet his work continues to inspire and heavily influence the art world.
Pro Hart is arguably one of Australia’s most renowned visual artists, whose work frequently depicted scenes from the Australian outback town, Broken Hill, where he spent most of his life. It was drawing from his experiences here, that led him to be given the esteemed title: Father of the Australian Outback Movement. As his popularity soared, he made sure that success for himself meant success for everyone around him, and was known for his extensive charity work. His contributions to the art world, and to Australians in need, saw him awarded status as a Member of the Order of the British Empire, as an honorary life member of Society International Martinique, as well as Australian Citizen of the Year.
Since passing, Pro’s art has only increased in popularity and made its way into the private collections of the average Australian, as well as collections around the globe. Many collectors are putting a Pro Hart on the wall for the sake of investment; Australian Art Sales Digest has been showing a pattern of increase with auction prices rising by 24% in the last year alone.
It’s encouraging to see such a powerful heritage from an iconic Australian making its way into important collections across the country, including Australia’s Parliament House and The Bond University.
‘The purpose of art in Parliament House is to reflect aspects of what it means to be Australian – and for me, that’s what this work does, ’Director, Parliament House Art Collection, Canberra, Ms Justine van Mourik said. “it is ‘Pro’ Hart at his best, reflecting his unique view of outback Australia – and a country racing carnival. It is all in the detail – everyone’s there – from the bookies and the punters to dogs roaming around and bored kids hanging off the fence. It’s a firm favourite of many parliamentarians and in constant demand.’
When commenting on their recent acquisition of a significant piece by Pro Hart, Bond University said: ‘The Bond University Art Collection is a diverse collection of Australian art with a focus on indigenous art from the central and western desert areas. Beyond this focus the collection proudly boasts the work of some of Australia’s most celebrated and renowned artists. The inclusion of the Pro Hart painting “The Gold Coast” is not only an excellent example of arguably Australia’s most famous artist, but its subject matter adds a local relevance that is unparalleled in the collection. The painting is unanimously enjoyed by the many visitors who respond to its typically alluring painterly style’
Pro Hart believed that art should strike a chord with the everyday Australian; or, as Pro would often say, ‘the bloke down the street’. His comical outlook and ability to illustrate Australian life formed a powerful connection between his audience and his subject matter.
Now thirteen years since his passing the impact of Pro Hart’s work is no less powerful as his imagery and unique style continue to connect with both the everyday Australian and collectors alike.
Photo Credit:-
Kevin ‘Pro’Hart MBE (1928-2006)
The four horse race, 1987
Purchased 2015
Parliament House Art Collection, Department of Parliamentary Services, Canberra ACT
Photo- David Hempenstall/DPS
