Fred Toumayan

Fred Toumayan VAS is a central figure in the Australian art scene whose career exemplifies a rare bridge between the high-pressure world of commercial advertising and the refined halls of fine art. Born in 1949 of Armenian descent, his story is one of lifelong devotion to the visual medium—a journey that began with sketches of 'Old Masters at age 15 and culminated in portraits of queens and national icons. 

The Early Spark and Commercial Mastery 

Toumayan’s artistic foundation was built on rigorous self-education and professional versatility. As a young student, he would return home from school to meticulously copy the works of the 'Old Masters', developing a classical sensibility that would later define his fine art. However, his professional life initially took a highly practical turn. 

Over five decades, he mastered an extraordinary range of disciplines, including Movie Posters and Cover Design, Crafting visual narratives for the entertainment industry. Sign writing and Graphics, honing his precision in layout and typography. Textile and Graphic Design, exploring the intersection of utility and aesthetics. 

Perhaps his most visible contribution to the Australian landscape was his work as a mural artist. Toumayan was considered a pioneer in "Outdoor Advertising Billboard Art," creating massive "Supersite" billboards for global brands. These were not mere advertisements, but large-scale public murals seen by thousands of daily commuters, making him one of the most widely viewed artists in the country during the peak of this era.

The Transition to Fine Art 

Despite his commercial success, Toumayan frequently remarked that his "heart had always remained within the Fine Arts". This passion eventually led him to the Victorian Artists Society, where he became an influential member.  At VAS, he shifted from the fleeting nature of billboards to the permanent legacy of canvas and clay. His fine art is celebrated for its diversity, refusing to be pinned down to a single style. 

His portfolio ranges from Impressionistic Landscapes, Capturing the atmospheric light of the Australian environment. Still Life, Creating intimate, textured studies of everyday objects. Sculpture, demonstrating his three-dimensional skill, notably winning second prize in the VAS Summer Exhibition for his clay work titled "My Dad".

Portraits of Power and Presence

Toumayan’s technical skill made him a sought-after portraitist for some of the most influential figures in public life. His ability to capture both likeness and character is evident in his depictions of Queen Elizabeth II, former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett, and media personality Tracy Grimshaw.

In 2006, he gained further notoriety for his portrait of Australian rules football legend and television host Sam Newman, which was entered into the Archibald Prize, Australia's most prestigious portraiture award. This work highlighted his ability to blend his commercial-scale boldness with the nuanced observation required for fine art portraiture.

Legacy and Recognition

Throughout his career, Toumayan has received numerous accolades, including the Khalil Gibran Literary Award in 1997, which recognized the philosophical and poetic depth of his visual storytelling. His work has been featured in solo and combined exhibitions across Australia and the Middle East, reflecting his heritage and international appeal.

Today, Toumayan remains an active and "un-slowing" force in the art world. Whether through his award-winning sculptures or his vibrant oil paintings like "The Olden Days," he continues to contribute to the rich tapestry of Australian contemporary art. Collectors can find his works through platforms like Bluethumb or witness his continued participation in the VAS Autumn Select Exhibition, where he competes alongside the next generation of Australian talent.