The Brisbane born artist moved to Sydney in 1917 and made this city his home for nearly 70 years, lovingly representing many of its landscapes throughout an artistic career that stretched across the 20th century. The exhibition focuses on his depictions of Sydney, particularly the harbour and its surroundings. After suffering personal tragedy Rees immersed himself in drawing working en plein air, seeking the permanence of things. In this exhibition Rees’s artistic obsession in particular with Balls Head is revealed, his pencil capturing many renditions of the lower north shore headland. Also illustrated are the suburbs he called home, from Pennant Hills to McMahons Point, and beyond to the South Coast, a favoured holiday destination.

The featured works reveal a quieter view of Sydney during the interwar period and reconfirms Rees as one of the most important 20th century Australian artists. He captured the quiet and timeless beauty of many cities, in particular his beloved Sydney; its harbour and rocky shorelines, emerging city centre and burgeoning suburbs. 

These original works will be accompanied by a selection of family photographs, artists’ tools and filmed recollections from Rees’s family, friends and students, presented alongside biographical information about the artist and his illustrious career.