BP has commissioned six established and emerging artists from around the country to form an exhibition that represents the company’s contribution to Australia over the past 100 years.
“Our Australian story has many layers and our business has evolved and grown greatly over the years; we’re thrilled to have six diverse and talented artists to help bring our story to life,” BP Australia President Andy Holmes said.
“From beginnings as a single fuel depot in Western Australia in 1919, BP now touches the lives of millions of Australians every day. Through the centenary artists program, we’ve represented the far and wide regions of the country, offering a glimpse of the role BP has played – and continues to play – in advancing energy in Australia.
“For 100 years BP has delivered energy for heat, power and transportation. A lot has changed during this time, but one thing remains the same: BP is committed to meeting the ever-changing needs of busy Australians in a safe, innovative and sustainable way.”
After close to three months of work, the finished BP centenary artworks can now be revealed. They will be displayed at events in Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney and Perth over the coming months.
Charmaine Pwerle (Alice Springs) 
Charmaine Pwerle’s interpretation of BP’s centenary hails from the stories passed down from the Aweyle Dreamtime.
A statement from BP reads: “The small and large semi-circular shapes of the piece represent Australia’s hills and valleys and the lines are that of dry riverbeds and streams, winding across the canvas as they do at Utopia in the Northern Territory. There may also be an outline of a person or unusual shapes that convey Dreaming spirits that dwell in the plant and animal life”.
Jesse Marlow (Melbourne) 
Melbourne photographer Jesse Marlow presents a glimpse into life behind the wheel of a BP tanker.
According to BP, Mr Marlow’s series focuses on the road travelled in between and the people committed to covering great distances across the country in order to supply fuel to Australians.
Marc Leib (Perth) 
Glass maker Marc Leib’s contribution to the centenary series is through six vessels representing the growth of the company over the past 100 years in Australia. It is also said to offer a glimpse of the future as BP shifts into lower carbon energy sources.
Nicole Van Dijk (Melbourne) 
Painter Nicole Van Dijk draws on the connection between those who live in the community of Papunya, Northern Territory and their land. BP claims to be the first to create a low-aromatic fuel in response to a request from the Papunya community.
Ms Van Dijk’s painting is said to represent those in the community who have benefited from the introduction of the low-aromatic fuel.
Ricky Gestro (Fremantle) 
According to a statement, New Zealand born Perth-based photographer Ricky Gestro explores the realities and possibilities of BP’s past, present and future in a three-part photo series.
Focusing on the forecourt and BP’s service station customers, Mr Gestro’s photography “speaks to BP’s diverse and pioneering technology as well as capturing futuristic tones and BP’s recognisable green branding”.
Warren Fox (Byron Bay) 
Warren Fox is an Australian artist who captures the detail in his subjects through the fine art of photo-realism.
According to BP, Mr Fox’s ‘Mr.P’ concept stems from the company’s close relationship and support of Native Arc (a rehabilitation centre for sick and injured animals).
