Jo Bertini

Born 1964, Sydney, Australia
Lives & Works – Sydney (Eora) & New Mexico, USA

Jo Bertini’s paintings traverse well-worn landscapes in an exploration of the true nature of wilderness. Drawing from the traditions of artists on scientific and ecological survey expeditions into the most remote and inaccessible regions, Bertini celebrates her long and intimate engagement with the desert. Her work bears witness to natural and human histories of nomadism observing the seasonal rhythm of landscapes and the people connected to them. With loose yet refined brushwork, Bertini depicts the fragile beauty of the world's remote desert landscapes connecting to what is seen and felt within. An innate longing that she expresses through her visceral, emotive paintings that serve as an act of devotion to the natural world.

An award winning painter, educator and writer, she has thirty years of experience as a professional exhibiting artist. Her works are held in the collections of Artbank, National Museum of Australia and the National Portrait Gallery. Bertini has been a finalist in numerous art prizes, including the Portia Geach Memorial Award (2024, 2022, 2021, 2017, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2009, 2008, 2006, 2005, 2004), Wynne Prize (2015), Tattersalls Art Prize (2019, 2015, 2014), Calleen Art Award (2014, 2013), Fisher's Ghost Award (2023), Mosman Art Prize (2023, 2014, 2013, 2011, 2007, 2006, 2004, 2002, 2001) and Sulman Prize (2011, 2010).