Through the sharing of his skills and knowledge, renowned local artist Alan Baker (1914- 1987) helped shape much of the Camden art scene in the 1970s and 80s.

In those last two decades of his life, Baker attended the Camden Art Group which would meet at Camden Public School weekly. He mentored aspiring artists in attendance, many of which later became established local artists.

The products of his influence are now on display until November 2023 in the Alan Baker Art Gallery’s latest exhibition, Baker - The Artist, The Influencer.

The exhibition features the works of several of those artists whose paint strokes were influenced by Baker, including Patricia Johnston, Nola Tegel, Olive McAleer and Jack Dunn.

Camden Mayor, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, said the exhibition was a fantastic showcase of some of the great local artists who came out of the Camden Art Group.

“Baker’s impact on art in Camden is profound. It’s exactly why in 2018, Council decided to name its art gallery at Macaria after him,” she said.

“To have these local great pieces of art on display, which were inspired by Baker, is truly magnificent to see. I encourage everyone to check it out.”

Artist Patricia Johnston said she was proud to be a part of the exhibition, given the significance of the Camden Art Group on her work.

“Alan gave us a thorough grounding in the practicalities of art – drawing, composition, techniques, plein air painting, portraiture and more,” she said.

“The specific advice he gave that always sticks with me was his emphasis on the importance of drawing as the basis of painting, and I always took that with me.

“I feel so grateful to have been part of the Camden Art Group, which gave me lifetime friendship with many I may never have met otherwise.”

For more information, visit alanbakerartgallery.com.au.