Very funny and well-observed, sardonic w/out hostility. Rhythm of end
bothers me --- suggest: "Philanthropy // only goes so far in such cases as
this."
----- Original Message -----
From: "Max Richards" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Wednesday, June 02, 2010 5:44 AM
Subject: snap: the sculpture opening
The Sculpture Opening
We wanted to go because four years back
we¹d got the sculptor, Graeme Foote,
to make us a plaque naming our house OIris¹.
In his OHawthorn Studio & Gallery¹
he¹s showing OLife size sculptures in stoneware
of 6 Influential Australian Women¹.
Life size! the first thing you worry about is
had they hoped for slimmer versions?
I edged in sideways, made for the cheese plate
(no weight worries, me) then circled warily.
Dame Elisabeth Murdoch here not for being
Rupert¹s Mum, but Melbourne¹s philanthropist.
On tv she crinkles up her centenarian face
benignly. Here Graeme¹s smoothed her somewhat.
Stephanie Alexander, cook book guru, stands
supported in front by a neat kitchen shelf
and chopping block, themselves slimming.
Christine Nixon, sturdy police chief, at her desk,
her smart cap perched on the corner of her chair.
The others I could list and describe but won¹t.
Distinguished, smoothed, quietly flattered.
I have to compliment the sculptor OGraeme,
I say, they¹re splendid, and many touches of wit.
I point to Stephanie¹s stoneware knife and fruit.
But what is their future? They need a whole gallery.¹
OI invited one lady to buy the lot for her collection
she only wanted herself.¹ Philanthropy
it only goes so far in cases such as this.
Max Richards
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