PETER WHITEHEAD
Perennial Vigilance
Mixed media plein air drawings on paper (6 X 40cms X 40 cms)
Framed: 143 X 103cm
The accessible and historic fortifications at Georges Head stand above Sydney Harbour as quiet sentinels over water that has long symbolised both refuge and freedom.
My plein air drawings reflect an immediate and active remembrance: an essential reflective motivation for the pursuit of perpetual peace and universal freedom.
On 9 December 2025 while sketching onsite, 2 naval vessels left the harbour. To me they were a timely image of our defence force’s continued vigilance, loyalty and comradeship defending the country they love.
Although the site did not see the same physical sacrifice of Gallipoli, Georges Head housed rehabilitation for the returned injured from WW1: a presence that is easily felt. _________________________________________________________________________
Peter Whitehead has always been an artist although his career was in law and for 8 years as the NSW Public Trustee, was a trustee of the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park. Peter’s early connection with the ANZAC legacy was stimulated by many prizes in the ANZAC essay competitions and stories from his father and grandfather of their commitment in the Armed Force.
Peter has been exhibiting his work for over 40 years, has won numerous prizes.
