National art: A simplistic view 'Queensland series' 1978

Robert MacPherson's art explores the way in which the identity of things is created by their systematic classification. He frequently includes reference to humorous preconceptions about society and art among the criteria used to both classify things and define their identity.

National art: A simplistic view ‘Queensland series’ is a serial work that repeats a single unit, a schematically simplified map of Queensland, twelve times with variations. Installed in a single line along a wall, the sequence creates a visual rhythm and at the same time is ironically reminiscent of a production line. The work presents the idea of a nation or a state existing as conceptual artefact, a manufactured thing which only really exists in the minds of those who think about it; meaning in effect that there are as many Queenslands as there are people who think about Queensland. The work is like a diagram for illustrating a philosophical idea, but ironically the units also resemble the shaped, hard-edged Minimalist paintings of the 1960s and 70s. This carefully manipulated ambiguity, demonstrating the arbitrary and fluid identity of things, is a central aspect of MacPherson's work. It is how he causes his viewers to the see the work more questioningly.

Robert MacPherson (1937–2021) was a conceptual artist of great sophistication and wit, whose work is a highly inventive bridge between the formal refinement of Minimalist art and the philosophical speculation of Conceptualism. This work highlights his humorous and sceptical attitude to the idea of national art.