Olinda by the Lodge, No. 21

Olinda by the Lodge, No. 21 continues an abstract expressionist exploration of line, form and natural rhythm inspired by the Dandenong Ranges. Rather than depicting landscape directly, the work translates organic structures — branches, layered foliage and growth patterns — into expressive linework and restrained gesture.

Intersecting lines move across the surface with moments of pause and release, allowing form to emerge gradually through balance and repetition. Soft tonal layers sit alongside darker, more assertive marks, creating a sense of depth and quiet movement throughout the composition.

The work reflects an interest in the subtle systems within nature — the underlying structures that exist beneath the visible landscape — inviting the viewer into a calm, contemplative space where abstraction becomes a way of sensing place rather than seeing it.

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Shannon Riches is an abstract expressionist artist based on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. With a 30-year background in graphic design and illustration, his work now centres on intuitive mark-making and tonal exploration inspired by the coastline and the Dandenong Ranges.
His process is tactile and instinctive — often painting with his hands, bark and found natural materials alongside traditional brushes to build layered, organic surfaces. Shannon also produces music under the name Approaching Black, and sees both practices as expressions of the same language — composition, tone and atmosphere.
His paintings are created to feel lived-in and emotionally grounded — artworks that belong in real spaces, quietly shaping the story of the room.