On Smoko
Dane Beesley
- Sitter: Eamon Sandwith
- Medium: Photograph
- Dimensions: 75cm x 100cm
- Representation: This artist represents themselves
About the artwork
Eamon Sandwith is the Brisbane-based lead-singer and bassist of Aussie punk rock band The Chats. Originally from the Sunshine Coast, The Chats shot to fame after their 2017 song “Smoko” went viral. In this photograph, Dane Beesley plays on the lyrics of the band’s breakout hit:
“It was there I spied the bloke, perched atop of his milk crate throne, he eyed me off as I approached, and then he said I’m on smoko, so leave me alone.”
Much like the band itself, there is more to Sandwith than meets the eye. With their mix of Australian larrikinism, ratbag attitude and bogan image, The Chats could easily be taken at face value. But their songs about Australian culture, politics and the working class aren’t always just for kicks.
The black background in this work not only brings Sandwith and his milk crate throne into clear focus, but also hints at a darker, more serious side, imploring the viewer (or listener) to look deeper.
About the artist
Brisbane photographer Dane Beesley is best known for his work in the music industry and spent a decade with Rolling Stone magazine. He has released several photo books including Splitting the Seconds: A Photographer’s Journal and co-founded the street print magazine Text & Image in 2013. A finalist in multiple major photography prizes, his work is held in public and private collections and featured in Australian and international publications.
