Oil on Canvas
105cm x 105cm
Framed
2026
Finalist - Gallipoli Art Prize 2026
“On the Beach” is a tribute to my grandfather, Gordon “Roy” Asprey DCM, and his fellow soldiers of the Railway Supply Detachment (11th AASC).
Based on detail of a photograph taken in September 1915 (unknown photographer, donated to the Australian War Memorial by G Bruce) it depicts the men on Anzac Beach in front of the piles of boxes at the Medical Comfort Store.
Despite the adversity these men undoubtedly faced while performing their duties during “a considerable period daily under fire”, I’m drawn to their apparent relaxed demeanour and in particular, the grinning face of my grandfather, Roy (who I fittingly knew as “Poppy”).
This painting is framed with a stained Tasmanian oak float frame, hand made by the artist.