Robby Bennett: Beyond Darkness

CASSANDRA BIRD is thrilled to present, ‘Beyond Darkness,’ a profound exploration of Robby Bennett’s newest body of work, inviting viewers to engage with the intricate interplay between individual reality and collective narrative. Robby Bennett’s paintings present playful compositions of mysterious symbols and cultural references, reflecting how reality and fiction shape our perceptions. Drawing from art history and his rural upbringing, Bennett creates both vibrant and monochrome artworks that spark curiosity and thoughtful reflection.

In this exhibition, Robby intertwines personal memories with historical narratives and abstraction. Each piece serves as a portal, inviting viewers to explore hidden layers of meaning beneath the surface and to question what dwells in the light—and what lies beyond.

In ‘The Last Ball on the Table,’ inspired by Frans Snyders, The Boar Hunt (circa 1650), Bennett reinterprets the dramatic relationship between humans, dogs, and movement. Through vibrant colors and familiar forms, he immerses us in the primal instincts that drive our actions. The interplay of tension and humor raises a compelling question: What does this duality reveal about our struggles? ‘Nature Silent,’ offers poignant observations of history and intimate narratives of closeness to nature, exploring feelings through gesture and creating a powerful connection with viewers. The nostalgia it evokes navigates the complexities of time and place. 

‘Songbird Sings at the Arrival of Peace’references Henri Rousseau’s “The War, or the Rider of Discord” (1894), contemplating the anguish and despair inherent in conflict. By contrasting colonial introduced objects with elements of chaos and tranquility, Bennett complements these themes with native flora and fauna as symbols of hope and renewal. The harmonious colors evoke serenity, inviting us to reflect on our own journeys toward peace.

By merging personal memories with references to art history and literature, Bennett creates a rich dialogue that resonates on multiple levels. His unique brushwork combines a vibrant palette with layered imagery, result in compositions that oscillate between chaos and harmony, inviting exploration and contemplation.Robby Bennett’s paintings invite us to explore the playful and compelling interplay between individual and collective narratives, revealing that moving through and beyond darkness uncovers the transformative power of shared human experience, opening pathways to discovery and renewal.

Robby Bennett completed his Honours in Fine Art with First Class Honours at SydneyCollege of the Arts, Sydney University, in 2016. Prior to this, he earned a Bachelor of Fine Art from The National Art School in Darlinghurst in 2015.

Robby’s work has been showcased in a variety of exhibitions. In 2023, he was a finalist in the Georges River Art Prize at the Hurstville Museum in Sydney. That same year, he participated in the ‘Open House’ exhibition at SODA + AHNESS in Adelaide. His previous exhibitions include ‘No Punchline’ at Peach Black Gallery in Chippendale  in 2022 and ‘While We’re Still Here, presented at Ambush Gallery in both Canberra and Waterloo in 2021. He also exhibited ‘Manipulated Moments’ at China Heights in Surry Hills  and participated in ‘Friends & Family’ at Daine Singer Gallery in Melbourne in 2019.

Robby Bennett received the Dean’s Choice Award for his honours year painting at Sydney College of the Arts in 2016 and the John McCaughey Prize for a Graduate Student from The National Art School in 2015. Having presented work in a group exhibtion at CASSANDRA BIRD in Jan 2023, Beyond Darkness will be Robby’s first solo exhibtion at CASSANDRA BIRD, Sydney.