Michael Brimmer
Smiley
Acrylic on canvas
90 x 90cm
I served in the Army Reserve in the early 1980’s, and the majority of my regiment’s Regular Army staff were Vietnam Veterans. They were fantastic, old-school soldiers always willing to give advice when needed. Sort of like wise old uncles.
For what they went through, it was disappointing that they were treated so shabbily back home by both our government and the public.
This painting is my way of acknowledging their efforts and the concept of lost youth.
The title ‘Smiley’ derives from the popular song of the time composed by Johnny Young.
“Smiley, you’re off to the Asian War,
And we won’t see your smile no more.”
