Artist funds anti-CSG group

Byron artist John Dahlsen will sell his artworks to raise money for the local anti-coal seam gas campaign.

Kate O'Neill

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JOHN Dahlsen collects rubbish washed up on beaches and transforms it into things of beauty.

The Byron Bay artist strives to turn the negative into positive - and says it is this philosophy that led him to his upcoming art sale and fundraiser.

Mr Dahlsen will open his home to the public on Sunday, September 18, offering for sale more than 50 pieces from his private and studio collection to help raise funds for the local anti-coal seam gas campaign.

Mr Dahlsen, whose work carries a strong environmental message, said coal seam gas was the most important environmental issue of the year.

"No company should have carte blanche to walk onto private property and vandalise our land and collective resources like the gas companies are doing."

Mr Dahlsen said he was also trying to keep art on the agenda, as the global financial crisis had hit the art world hard.

All of his work will be for sale at "GFC" prices: "It's not really the time to sell art that carries international price tags - which means there's a real opportunity for locals and visitors to the area alike to invest in affordable and collectable artworks at reduced prices and at the same time help a great cause," he said.

Works for sale represent selections of his output between 1999-2011.

They include paintings, assemblages and environmental totems.

Mr Dahlsen, who is about to release a memoir and how-to guide to arts promotion, said he was currently reorganising his studio practice to focus on the publication of his books.

"I feel as if a whole new phase of my career is about to begin and it feels good to move some of my artwork to good homes."

The art sale and fundraiser will be held at Mr Dahlsen's home at Skinners Shoot from 2-4pm on September 18.

Proceeds from the $10 door donation will go to the anti-coal seam gas campaign, as will as 10% of all sales of artworks.

For bookings phone 6685 5965.