During 2016 and 2017 I focused on two seasons, Spring and Summer. This continued from an exhibition of Autumn Still Life’s exhibited in 2015.
These paintings were inspired by my partner Nina’s ever changing creative arrangements around our home. Vases of flowers, produce bought at the local market, freshly picked herbs, deep purple lavender and tall branches of loquat leaves from our garden. Along with the many treasured objects Nina has collected on her travels overseas gave me no shortage of things to paint.
Later paintings in this series were influenced by Margaret Olley, Vincent Van Gogh and Henri Matisse, love of colour.
When I began to paint for this exhibition, I reflected on my time in the 80’s. Starting my career, I was very fortunate to have a studio in Fitzroy close to the now vibrant Smith St of today. Cheap rent allowed myself and many artists to explore their passion in art. I was extremely fortunate to have the support of galleries such as Von Bibra in High Street Armadale, Rumberella’s in Brunswick St, Chapman Gallery Canberra, Libby Edwards South Yarra, and Sorrento, Hill-Smith Gallery Adelaide and Collins Street Gallery Melbourne, where my work was exhibited.
This body of work is reflective and sensitive to my love of colour and the beauty of all that’s around us every day.
