The Toad, 2023

"The Toad, 2023" is a thought-provoking portrait that delves into the historical impact of Captain Louis Hope and John Buhot's establishment of the first viable cane plantation in Brisbane in 1862, marking the beginning of commercial sugar production. This acrylic painting captures the essence of that era.
Within the composition, a poignant scene unfolds. A quoll, symbolizing the native wildlife, lies lifeless on a table beside the toad. This juxtaposition serves as a powerful reminder of the quoll's fatal attraction to the toad, as their appetite for these creatures leads to their demise due to the toxins they contain.
The artwork aims to shed light on the complex ecological consequences resulting from the introduction of invasive species. The spread of cane toads, now exceeding 2 million in Australia, has caused a significant decline and even extinction of native wildlife.