Bower treasure nest

The Bower nest in the series really is a nest of treasures, strictly speaking it is not a nest but a Bower corridor constructed by the male Bower bird to attract a female. The male tries to impress her with his building skills which take up to 6 years to perfect, learning off other male Bower birds. The Bower is also decorated with all sorts of treasures red, yellow & shiny items are gathered but the prized articles are blue in colour from feathers to clothes pegs, plastic forks & bottle tops. This nest was constructed in a friends garden, what a treasure trove.

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I was born in Malaysia to Scottish parents who managed a rubber plantation.
As a child I constantly drew and painted. When I was not doing that, I would sneak stray and injured animals’ home to add to my menagerie. Art and animals have always been an important part of my life.
I studied Chinese brush painting in Malaysia entrenching my passion for watercolour. After completing my education in Scotland, I travelled and worked in Europe before moving to Australia in 1990.
I am aware of the frightening rate that our planet’s flora and fauna is becoming threatened or extinct and I often reflect this in some of my paintings.
I also explore and paint other subjects including the human form.
I take inspiration from nature and animals. In my studio I am kept company by my three dogs, one of which would spend the day lying on my desk if I let him.
I start my painting process with a period of contemplation deciding on composition and colour combinations. As I start painting, I fall into a place of quiet feeling where time and thinking disappear. I become swept up with the unrestrained flow of the watercolour. Painting for me is a passion and a precious way to portray beautiful souls.