Leigh and Liz 2005 |
Leigh Morgan - artist profile
Leigh Morgan was born 1944 at Greville Street Prahran in Melbourne. His Mother Ruth came to Australia as a refugee from Hitler's Germany's before the war and married Frank Morgan at 19 years. His father was an accomplished artist and recognized member of the George Bell school. As a young boy Leigh accompanied his parents on trips or visits with Joy Hester and Albert Tucker, then a mate of Frank snr. whose circle included Ambrose (Amby) Dyson, Noel Counihan and Vic O'Conner, the latter three becoming Leigh's first art teachers. Leigh remembers
Amby for his humor and enthusiasm and of being encouraged in his efforts by both Counihan and O'Conner.
In 1980 he sold up everything and moved with his family to Thora just inland from the North Coast town of Bellingen (see www.bellingen.com) There, inspired by his surroundings and the opportunity of early semi-retirement from his city profits he turned back to art. Landscapes, abstract design and portraiture came naturally to Leigh who was able to draw on his 15 years draughting experience and the excellent training he had from his art teachers. He was in good company with many other artists living and working in the Bellingen area picking up valuable life drawing experience with local artists Shelly Kelly, Chris Hundt and Alan Boucher. Leigh was successful from the outset both in art competitions and in selling his paintings.
Leigh sold his Thora property and now lives and works nearer the mouth of the beautiful Bellinger river with his partner Liz Challis who is also an artist (and an antique dealer). His talented children, Lisa, Michael and Charlie are now all living away from home.
His daughter Lisa is following her grandfather's and father's footsteps, and is already a fine artist and sculptor. Lisa has completed her fin arts degree and a teaching degrees. She is currently taking a Master's degree in libarianship now that her teaching commitment (English as a foreign language in Bankok) is completed. Lisa's sculpture and paintings,
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| Leigh Morgan's sculptures and paintings are represented in collections in Victoria, NSW, Tasmania, England, USA, Japan and Russia. | ||