Jiri Tibor Novak originally from the Czech lands (Bohemia) in Europe, arrived in Australia in 1970 after which he travelled to Italy, Greece, England, Canada, and back to Australia, where he made his home in Aireys Inlet.

In Australia, Tibor wrote and illustrated children’s books and taught illustration, principles and elements of graphic design at the Gordon Institute of TAFE. Tibor completed printmaking studies in Prague, Toronto and Melbourne.

A printmaker, painter and occasionally a writer, Tibor’s practice was made up of whimsical and poetic juxtapositions that resulted in childlike and enchanting imagery.

‘Some of my works are informed by a myriad of literary sources that result in an exchange between image and text as in artist books: ‘Portraits’, ‘visitors’ and the latest ‘ A Smile At Arm’s Length’ written by Gregory Day.’

— Jiri Tibor Novak (Tibor)

Tibor passed away December 2021