Dion Beasley
2 Aug
1/3 Vickers Street
Parap
To celebrate the release of Dion Beasley’ and Johanna Bell’s wonderful illustrated memoir, Cheeky Dogs: To Lake Nash and Back, The Project Space will be exhibiting a selection of Beasley’s original artworks. Both Dion and Johanna will be present for the exhibition, which depicts Beasley’s fascination with cheeky dogs and his unconventional journey into the world of contemporary art.
Beasley’s Cheeky Dogs artwork is loved in Australia and around the world. Go Home, Cheeky Animals won the 2017 Children’s Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Award. This story captures in vivid detail Beasley’s life in Tennant Creek and the people, places and dogs he loves.
IMAGE: Untitled, Pencil and graphite on paper, 29 x 35 cm, Cat No. DB-6-19
BIOGRAPHY
Dion was born in Alice Springs on July 7th, 1991. He spent the first eleven years of his life living and travelling with his extensive family in the many communities within the Barkly Region. Dion continues to immerse himself in drawing many of these communities which he fondly remembers in great detail.
In 2002 he came to live with his extended family in Tennant Creek. He attended the primary school and high schools in Tennant Creek. This was a difficult time for Dion as he was profoundly deaf and had minimal communication skills. While attending the primary school Dion met a teacher, Joie Boulter and they spent a lot of time together, learning a little sign language and engaging in a variety of learning experiences. Dion was living with his Aunty at that time, then moved in with his grandfather. When his grandfather became unwell and unable to care for Dion, the decision was made for Dion to live with the Boulters. Dion continued daily visits to sit with his grandfather and spend time with his extended family.
Dion was, and continues to be, a keen traveller. He enjoys holidays, visiting new places and constantly extending his horizons. He continues to be curious about the world around him, is extremely innovative and is able to gather knowledge on ever increasing subjects.
Being non-verbal, Dion has perfected the art of drawing his experiences and so developed a form of communication with others. Dion has a special affinity with dogs which form an integral part of many communities. He loves to draw all the dogs he has encountered over the years. His amazing observational and memory skills are instrumental in reproducing the correct size, colour, ears, tail etc. These drawings have formed the basis of many exhibitions in which Dion has participated.
Johanna Bell (author) approached Dion about collaborating on a children’s picture book and so began a wonderful friendship. Three books later, the bond remains stronger than ever and many opportunities for further work with other artists have developed from their work together.
Over the years Dion has enjoyed the wonderful support and friendship of many people from all walks of life. He continues to draw and construct models, eagerly making plans for the future.
