Wykeham Perry (1936–2021) was an Australian landscape painter whose realist work reflects a close interest in country scenery. His background in rural Victoria helps place his paintings in context, while individual works reward attention to light, composition and the handling of oil paint.
Early Life and Painting Career
Born in Melbourne in 1936, Wykeham Lindley Perry grew up on his parents’ farm in the Steavenson River Valley near Marysville. After leaving school in 1955, he worked in banking and the petroleum industry before joining the Australian Public Service.
He continued painting alongside his employment, joined the Canberra Artist Society and developed from watercolour into oils. A self-taught artist, he held his first solo exhibition in 1974. He later moved with his wife to Eildon, where the surrounding landscape provided further inspiration. Perry died on 25 April 2021, aged 84.
Artistic Influences and Recognition
Gallery K identifies Arthur Streeton, Elioth Gruner, Robert Johnson and Rubery Bennett among the painters Perry admired. These are recorded influences, rather than evidence that he studied directly under them.
The gallery also records his involvement with the Victorian Artists Society and the Australian Guild of Realist Artists, together with prizes at suburban and country art shows between 1972 and 2003.
Looking at Fishing Scene
The oil on board illustrated here, held by TMC Art, shows an angler standing in still water beneath tall gum trees. Warm trunks and sunlit banks contrast with cooler distant hills, while reflections carry the eye back towards the fishing figure. These observations describe this painting, rather than a formula for every Perry work.
The painted image measures approximately 75 × 59.8 cm and bears the name Wykeham Perry at the lower right. Fishing Scene is a descriptive title: the work is untitled and undated. Its precise location has not been established.
Wykeham Perry’s Signature
The accompanying close-up records the flowing painted signature on this example. Use it alongside the complete composition, medium, reverse, labels and ownership history when comparing another work. One signature photograph cannot establish authenticity by itself; position and appearance should not be treated as fixed across an artist’s career.
Collecting Wykeham Perry Paintings
Look for a convincing composition, expressive light and clear documentation of the individual painting. Check whether a title is inscribed by the artist or supplied by a seller, and record any date, signature and reverse labels accurately.
Examine the surface for lifting paint, scratches, retouching or uneven varnish, and check the board, frame and fixings separately. Frame wear does not automatically indicate damage to the painting. Keep purchase records and photographs of the front, signature and reverse together. Display oil paintings away from direct sunlight, damp and sudden changes in temperature; seek a conservator’s advice before cleaning the painted surface.