Text and photo by Robyn Jordan

Classic Man, by Francis Upritchard, was presented by FOH in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the opening of Hazelhurst and the 30th anniversary of the formation of the Friends of Hazelhurst.

Classic Man is crafted from bronze, a timeless material that sculptors have used for thousands of years. The title connects to the art of Classical Greece. However, unlike Greek statues that usually show heroic and beautiful figures, this ‘Classic Man’ is quite ordinary.

The sculpture is a tribute to the bust often used for portraits. But it also has a rough finish, reminiscent of works by French sculptor Auguste Rodin.

Francis Upritchard is an artist who blends figurative sculpture, craft traditions, and design, all while drawing inspiration from literature and history. She creates work across the globe. In the welcome plaza of the Art Gallery of New South Wales Naala Badu building, you will find Francis Upritchard’s famous work Here Comes Everybody. These towering figures welcome visitors to the premier gallery in NSW. Is Classic Man their little brother?  We are happy to have him welcoming visitors to Hazelhurst.

FOH acknowledges the assistance of Victoria Wynne-Jones, Hazelhurst Curator in sourcing this artwork. The work was purchased from Fine Arts Paddington.