Serenity

The pelican holds a special place in my heart as my favorite bird. Growing up near Lake Illawarra, I have fond memories of watching these majestic creatures glide and gracefully land on the water.

One day, while visiting the boat harbor at Kiama, I encountered this particular pelican patiently waiting for the return of the fishing boats. The stillness of the water that day caught my attention, reflecting the pelican's serene presence with a captivating clarity.

Inspired by this scene, I was compelled to translate the moment onto canvas. Capturing not only the pelican's tranquil demeanor but also the subtle interplay of light and reflection on the water became my artistic focus.

This painting is a homage to the beauty and tranquility of coastal life, where moments of quiet observation can reveal the profound connection between wildlife and their natural habitats. It serves as a reminder of the peaceful coexistence between humans and nature, inviting viewers to pause and appreciate the simple yet remarkable moments that surround us.

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I started out with a pencil in hand, drawing portraits and learning to capture emotion through subtle lines and shadows. Over time, I found myself wanting more depth, colour, and freedom and that led me to oil painting.

These days, I love working with oil because of how it lets me explore contrast, light, and mood in a way pencil never could. My subjects are always changing. I’m drawn to anything with character, whether it’s a person, an old car, an animal, or even a building.

For me, painting is about looking more closely and finding something interesting in the everyday and bringing it to life with colour and light.