Jan Senbergs - Antarctic Expedition 1987-89

Antarctic Expedition 1987

This exhibition is a result of an invitation by the Australian
Antarctic Division to visit Antarctica on their annual re-supply
Voyage-Six in January and February, 1987

On board the ice-strengthened vessel "Icebird", were other
invited travellers, including fellow artists Bea Maddock and
John Caldwell, and a complement of media representatives
academics, local and international scientists and a foreign
affairs man.

We the "Jafas", as round-trippers are known, (in Antarctic
language JAFA means "just another fucking academic!")
accompanied the various groups of professionals who make
up an Antarctic re-supply expedition. It was a wonderful
experience in great company.

I remember those high latitude nights aboard the Icebird -
stumbling downstairs to the bar in the hold, leaning expertly
against the heaving roll of the ship - discussing loudly with
Rhys-Jones the significance of past traditions when artists
accompanied scientific expeditions.

I like to think of this exhibition in that spirit - as an attempt
at a record and reflection of a modern day voyage to the last
great wilderness of this earth. Jan Senbergs, March 1988

Foreword from Voyage Six - Antartica, Powell Street Gallery 1988