Last month I ventured out from the city on a couple of trips to rural NSW, taking in some fresh air and inspiration. Enjoying family walks in high alpine scenery, big skies and unique wildlife, I also managed to visit two of my favourite regional galleries and attend a wonderful charity art auction in Wagga.
I've been so interested talking to people about landscapes and the different elements we respond to, or yearn for - either in a break away from home, or as part of our everyday. Whilst on the road and equally while I'm walking (or sitting and contemplating), I find myself identifying and appreciating tiny details, most of them easily recognisable - and I realise sometimes the sight of a windmill and a water tank, or a windbreak, or a shearing shed - are loved because they are familiar, or characteristically Australian perhaps. Yet it's the broad feel and mood of a place or landscape that is exciting and interesting to experience - and then equally challenging and exciting to interpret and express artistically. I'm aiming to explore the concept of combining nostalgia with the raw physical beauty of the landscapes I'm studying.
I'm happy to have a piece of work included in an exhibition opening today at the Corner Store Gallery. Orange is always worth a visit, and more especially so during F.O.O.D week. I have strong family ties to the region, and so relish the opportunity to participate in the community there.
