The South Coast of Western Australia is where the forest meets the sea. The undulating countryside, tall Karri trees and old mill homes along with a panoramic inlet, picturesque rivers and pastoral country scenes, offers a wide choice of subject material.
Colors are bold, yet harmonious. Compositions are naive, almost childlike. Water-tanks, rickety gates, fence posts and windswept gum trees are all featured. Wispy smoke from roof top chimneys along with whimsical farm animals adds life and humor.
Still water and the images it reflects inspires me like no other subject and I often walk the Denmark riverbank with paints and easel seeking that perfect scene of mirror-like reflections in still glassy water.
Old mill homes and their surrounding gardens I find an interesting subject. Their sagging roofs, crooked fences, leaning water tanks and rustic letterboxes all suggest a time gone by. Captured in oils, on canvas, their historical charm will be forever remembered.
Capturing the seascape in all its moods is a never ending challenge. From large swells crashing onto rocks to peaceful days with white sands and clear transparent turquoise waters.
My favorite painting technique is plein air. The direct approach and spontaneity required to capture the subject before the light changes is good discipline for the artist and the best way to improve, as quick decisions must be made and rendered accordingly.
Country cottages of Western Australia's south west are the source of inspiration for this whimsical technique. Unlike my usual plein air and traditional methods, this quirky style is produced in the studio as I rely on imagination only.
