Exhibition Opening Saturday 1 March @ 4 - 6pm
In celebration of my recent Australian citizenship, this collection explores the unique spirit of Australia through the lens of surrealistic Australian animals. With a playful and humorous twist, these works aim to capture my perception of the Australian culture I have come to cherish – specifically the lighthearted nature, the way Australians ‘take the piss’ of things, and the fact that they don’t take themselves too seriously. As a charcoal artist, I am drawn to pushing its expressive potential beyond traditional applications. Often relegated to a supporting role on canvas or linen, I sought to elevate charcoal to the forefront and not just be the preliminary sketch of an underpainting. By choosing linen and leaving much of it exposed, I aimed to create a more natural aesthetic that fosters a sense of authenticity. The interplay between the raw texture of the linen and the dynamic contrast of the charcoal has resulted in a captivating visual tension and unexpected synergy. This collection is a testament to the ability of art to capture the essence of a place and to celebrate the unexpected beauty that arises from embracing the unconventional. Through this collection, I hope to invite viewers to share in my appreciation for the quirky humor of Australian culture and invoke a smile or laugh.