My work is inspired by the natural environment - from the bush to the beach. I love the feeling of being immersed in nature, to feel connected to the earth and the elements. Inspiration usually comes incidentally - when walking or driving - little details or vast vistas catch my eye with their unique pattern, colour or form. Painting is a form of mindful meditation for me, a place I lose myself in the process and feel connected to something greater than myself.
I predominantly paint landscapes and still life studies, with a focus on our unique Australian environment. My landscapes evolve from my memory of a particular place - not just the visual elements but the whole sensory experience and my emotional response to that moment in time. At some point during their creation, the painting takes on a life of its own and becomes more about the painting itself than any direct representation. My still life works are simple, contemplative studies with an emphasis on interesting plants and vessel forms and harmonious compositions.
Layering is an important element of my work and I use a variety of materials and implements to build up interesting textures and effects. I use palette knives, brushes (sometime homemade), rags and squeegees to apply paint. For smaller works on paper I use a combination of watercolour, ink, charcoal and soft pastels.
