Go bananas over SAM’s new installation

By Shepparton News

May 9, 2024

Just peachy: Kenny Pittock and 100 ice-cream detail. Image courtesy of the artist and MARS Gallery, Melbourne. Photo: Emmy Clifton

Shepparton Art Museum has unveiled its latest Art Wall installation, with the artist hosting a free artist talk on the exhibition.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

Designed by Melbourne-based artist Kenny Pittock, the installation, titled Can You Peel The Love Tonight, is a playful take on the fruit growing and preserving industries of the Goulburn Valley.

The installation is the fifth commission for the Furphy Family Art Wall, and is on display on level four at SAM.

Mr Pittock, a visual artist, drew inspiration from the iconic canned fruit produced in the region, presenting a large-scale still life painting that celebrates the agricultural heritage and the community found in the Goulburn Valley.

“This Art Wall from Kenny is a wonderful celebration of our region’s famed fruit preservation industry, and the people who have contributed to its growth and success over many decades,” SAM chief executive Melinda Martin said.

“So many people in our region are connected to either the fruit growing or canning industry, sometimes across generations, and we’re so excited that Kenny has chosen them as the inspiration for his Art Wall commission.

“We invite everyone to visit SAM during the Art Wall’s exhibition and see their story expressed in Kenny’s playful work.”

Mr Pittock will also be joining Ms Martin for a free artist talk on Saturday, May 18, to explore his creative practice, inspirations and the story behind his exhibition.

Can You Peel the Love Tonight will be on display at SAM from May 18.

To learn more about the artist talk and to reserve your spot, head to https://sheppartonartmuseum.com.au/event/sam-talks-kenny-pittock/