We were driving back to Katherine on Binns Track, north-east of Alice Springs and were caught in a torrential downpour, January 2022. We pulled over and camped on the side of the road. In the morning, the light peaking through the clouds making beautiful patterns on the ground were breath-taking. I managed to snap off a few photos before we hurriedly packed up, hoping not to get bogged, which we didn't. The rich red oxides combined with the grey-greens of the bush bounce off each other.
As I work I am concerned with mark-making, to capture the feeling of a surface, which may contrast with the surrounding textures. For example, in this work I have used a variety to tools to scrape and work with the paint to build up a textured surface representing the pandanus and trees, which you can see in the detailed image. This built up texture contrasts with the smooth, serene surface of the water and reflections.
I am influenced by Doug Wright, an Australian painter, with his textural approach and strong use of colour. Also, the Australian Impressionist tradition, specifically Roberts, Streeton and McCubbin.