Ekka
The Brisbane agricultural show is an old and well loved Queensland institution known locally as the Ekka. The quieter parts of the show provide good material for paintings.
Still Life Ignition
Bright mandarins smoulder against a deep blue background. This deep tonal contrast is a feature often seen in my still life paintings.
Papaw
Many old Queensland gardens grew sweet-tasting papaw. The best plants were nursed into extreme old age with much care and love because the sweet fruit they produced were worth the effort.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are a joy to paint. Their happiness brightens up everyone’s mood. However the long, sinuous tendrils give an indication that there is a darker side to this innocent plant. These contradictions make for an interesting still life painting.
Enamelware
Colourful enamelware makes a great painting subject. First it has to be thoughtfully arranged and lit with a spotlight. Then comes the challenge of depicting the hard, bright, coloured surface of the metal.
More Backyards
More paintings from the Brisbane suburbs as they were decades ago. More overgrown gardens, stove recesses, gates and fences. Paintings from a time when Brisbane was just a big country town.
Orange Trumpets
Orange Trumpet vine flowers profusely in the heat of the Queensland summer. It clings tenaciously to the wooden fences in the older parts of Brisbane. The bright orange flowers make it a deight to paint.
Windows of the Soul
Windows allow in the light, the breeze or just the view of the garden and thus are positive and life affirming. Paintings of windows channel all these positive vibes and are a source of great encouragement.
Brisbane City Markets
Sketches and paintings from Brisbane city markets capture the spirit of life in Queensland. The casual and relaxed attitude of the shoppers reflects the laid back quality of life in the Sunshine State.
Fresh Flowers
I paint on weekdays, but Saturday is my gardening day. I have always been a keen gardener and these days I’m often growing things to paint. Brisbane is sub tropical and I can grow plants all year round, though the plants grow slowly in our mild winters. It’s a constant battle with the wildlife: possums,…