A fascinating presentation by George - especially for those of us who enjoy History. George is a successful graphic designer and acclaimed portrait artist who has a strong passion about our Australians who have served our nation through many wars and conflicts George presented on his book The Art of Silence First though, a little of his background. He was born in Cyprus and arrived in Australia in 1956 along with this parents and the rest of their family. He was the youngest child. Fast forward to 2010 which was essentially the starting point of this journey that he was about to relate. George was diagnosed with cancer which is obviously a defining moment in anyone's life. Needless to say, he has beaten that. Anyway, at this time George decided to take up painting. Initially this was abstract art, but he transformed himself into a portrait artist. The Art of Sacrifice came to life during COVID when he had time on his hands and grew into a very well put together book. Essentially George paints the portraits from old photos or even in one instance glass plates. Where possible he does get relatives or close friends to write the stories behind the photos. The Art of Sacrifice has 4 distinct sections 1. Lost diggers of Vignacourt (this is where the glass plates of the soldiers were found) 2. Australian VC recipients 3. Great Australian Stories 4. From All Walks of Life George had a long story to tell but time was limited. Needless to say it would have been interesting to hear more in depth background on some of his subjects - he had a few favourites but there would definitely have been more. His newest project is honouring the female nurses and doctors who went off to war despite the Australian government trying to prevent them from doing so (especially the doctors) he tells us there were 26 of them so this will be another fascinating historical tome George did have some books which he managed to sell on the night bit for those members who are interested in obtaining one feel free to talk to Elizabeth or go to his web page - https://georgepetrou.com.au
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