Painting by Annie Hawkins 288 Artworks Sold

Through the looking glass

Oil, Canvas, Ready to hang

91cm (W) x 183cm (H) x 3cm (D)

Certificate of Authenticity Included
A$4,850

Artwork Description

I’ve always wanted to create a painting that resembles a window. ‘Through the looking glass’ transports me to the Hawkesbury River in Sydney, it is misty and I am motoring up the river in a tinny. I study the quintessential scenery of the Berowra Waters and mentally file away the images of rocky outcrops and vast stretches of bushland towering above me. This is a large artwork, but, as intended, if you look long enough, you will be mesmerised by the view.

* This artwork is UNFRAMED waiting for your individual decor choice. All images depicting frames are for inspirational purposes only.

Artist Bio

For me, art has been a lifelong passion. Largely self-taught, I dabbled with  acrylics at high school before stepping away from my practice while work and raising my family became the priority.

Around fifteen years ago, I returned to painting, this time working predominantly with oils, and rediscovered a creative outlet that has since become an essential part of my life.

Inspired by Australia's expansive rural landscapes and coastlines, my works explore the quiet beauty found in open spaces, changing weather and the subtle character of isolated cottages and weathered buildings. Rather than capturing every detail of a scene, I like to focus more on the atmosphere, quality of light and the emotions a place evokes. This approach has shaped a newer contemporary realist style, defined by muted, natural colour palettes, simplified compositions and a strong sense of calm.

Much of my inspiration comes from travelling through regional Australia, where I am drawn to the places many people pass without a second glance, winding country roads, distant hills, open paddocks and ageing farmhouses. Early experiences exploring the bush and farmland alongside my grandparents instilled a lifelong appreciation for nature, and those memories continue to influence my work today. The ever-changing Australian landscape remains my greatest teacher, offering endless moments of beauty, solitude and reflection.

Guided by a belief that simplicity can often be the most powerful form of expression, I strive to create paintings that celebrate atmosphere over detail. Through restrained compositions and luminous light, I invite viewers to slow down, reflect and form their own personal connection with the landscape.

Above all, I hope my artworks create a sense of peace. Whether they evoke nostalgia, stillness or quiet contemplation, I would like to think my paintings offer a place for the eye to rest and the mind to wander, allowing each viewer to discover their own memories and meaning within the landscapes.

Recognition

My work has been featured in Home Beautiful magazine’s curation of “Australia’s Local Talent ~ 20 artists to buy from now,” and I was honoured to be named one of Bluethumb’s Top 10 Landscape Artists of 2023, as well as a finalist in the Bluethumb Art Prize in both 2020 and 2023.

More than 300 of my artworks have found homes in private collections in Australia and internationally, and alongside my studio practice, I create commissioned oil paintings for collectors working closely to capture meaningful places and personal stories.

I also work as an interior stylist, which has given me an appreciation for how artwork interacts within a space and complements an interior environment.

Thank you for taking the time to learn a little more about me and the inspiration behind my work.