Ageing King Protea With Banksia

This still life examines the balance between vitality and transience through the sculptural form of protea blooms. Selected for their strength and architectural presence, the flowers are paired with dried seed heads and fallen leaves, suggesting different stages of the natural life cycle. A simple glass jug and wooden surface create a quiet, domestic setting that allows light, texture, and form to take precedence. Cool floral tones are set against a warm, neutral background to encourage calm, sustained viewing. The work invites reflection on stillness, endurance, and the quiet beauty found in moments between bloom and decay. Finalist 2026 Doyle's Art Awards Highly Commended Australian Artists Awards 2025

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I have been resident in Queensland since arriving here in 1986 and became a citizen in 1988. Before leaving London I worked in fashion, textile design and book illustration. I travel as far and as wide as time and finances allow. My interests other than art are music, reading, theatre and film. I work from life and may use photography as an aid.
I attended St. Martin's School Of Art in London (now amalgamated with Central School Of Art and called Central St. Martin's) for 4 years graduating with a B.A. in 1971. The first year was "Foundation Year" after which students re-applied for acceptance into the three year degree course. The training was intense and focused on drawing in all categories - life, structural, architectural, still life etc. with some very critical academics and artists as instructors. Before graduating I was already illustrating books for Oxford University Press and working on fabric print design for Veronica Marsh in London who worked with Sandra Rhodes and Vivienne Westwood amongst others.
Since retiring from full time self employment I have concentrated on my art with no financial constraints which means absolute freedom of creativity. My practise revolves around the natural world including humans and animals. I work in oil and watercolour from life and enter awards when and where I can some of which are listed below.

Doyles Art Award Finalist 2026 "Highly Commended"
Lethbridge Smalls Awards Finalist
Yeppoon Art Awards Winner
Royal Queensland Art Awards Finalist
Australian Artists Awards 2025 Finalist "Highly Commended"
Stanthorpe Art Award 2024 Finalist
Website: carolforbescroad.com