Beauty and nostalgia are two common themes that deviate from, yet can be part of, the never-ending change that is creativity. These ideas are universal, however they are interpreted differently by each individual. Perceptions of beauty differ between people, just as our culture, sizes and personalities do. What one person deems beautiful, the next could perceive as a perpetual waste of space. In light of this, each artwork, idiosyncratic, distinctive and as peculiar as it is, still evokes an emotion or reaction from the viewer.
With its vividly red, endless stretches of terrain, dense rainforests encapsulating peace and serenity, and its bold, conquering ocean line, it is no wonder that artists embrace the Australian landscape. Richard Dunlop, whose artworks are now recognised internationally, pays tribute to its beauty. His depiction of the landscape and culture is true, and evocative of real emotion. In his own words, ‘Art doesn’t come out of a white box, it comes out of life’ (Dunlop, 2014). Dunlop’s work is widely appreciated, not only by general viewers, but collectors, curators and critics.
For his painting Natural History (2006), Dunlop has used oil and mixed media on archival paper. The bright oranges, glossy greens and sunshiny yellows create a vibrant and peaceful landscape. The thin, ginger-coloured vines intertwine and wrap around the dark orange flowers. Numerous tones of green leaves are hidden amongst the bright petals, breaking the surface into shapes and intricate lines and patterns. The layering of the subject matter creates interest. It appears as though a layer behind the orange-coloured focal point has been painted, using the back end of a paint brush, to achieve extremely fine detailed lines.
‘Like Degas, I paint quickly... The rest of this article is available to subscribers of Eyeline
Richard Dunlop, Natural History, 2006. Oil and mixed media on archival paper, 90 x 90cm.
Craig Waddell, Songs of the Heart, 2014. Oil on linen, 185 x 170cm. Courtesy of Edwina Corlette Gallery.
