The Tower Block Series
In 1994 Manning moved to Melbourne, Victoria, where, after the hilly terrain of Sydney, she at first struggled to come to terms with the flat landscape. Living in Williamstown she obtained access to two housing commission blocks, Nelson Heights and Floyd Lodge, initially to paint views from above. The Tower Block Series explores themes of isolation and community.
From 17 works one, ‘Bob’, was purchased for the City of Hobson's Bay Art Collection, another ‘Night, Hobson's Bay’ won the Hoechst Art Grand Prize.
Hobsons Bay. acrylic on masonite
Hoechst Art Grand Prize.
As the work progressed the artist got to know the residents and a number of portraits of the inhabitants in their homes developed. Every flats layout was identical, one main room, kitchenette and bathroom, but the character of each individual made them all unique. Incredibly generous with their time sitting for portraits or allowing access to the sweeping views from their windows, Manning recalls one gentleman saying not to worry as he went to bed while she worked through the night to finish painting a view from his window.
Nelson Heights
Francis and her Grandchild.acrylic on masonite 81 x 57 cm
Night, Nelson Heights. acrylic on masonite 73 x 36 cm
The Red Curtain. acrylic on masonite 64 x 44 cm
Night, Nelson Place Across the Bay. acrylic on masonite 46 x 74 cm
Floyd Lodge
4.30pm with Bob and Norm. acrylic on masonite 51.5 x 86 cm
Eunice. acrylic on masonite 71.5 x 43.5 cm
George and Zimba. acrylic on masonite 67 x 50 cm
Maria. acrylic on masonite 41.5 x 56 cm
Alf. acrylic on masonite 49.5 x 72 cm
Hilda in the Corridor. acrylic on masonite 50 x 71.5 cm
The Terminus to Across the Bay. acrylic on masonite