These works have evolved over several years to finally become what have come to term ‘Portrait-Landscapes.’
The process involves a conversation with the person or family member who is is commissioning the work. We then discuss their journeys through life, their parents, partners and children. Then explore pivotal moments, turning points, dreams and memories. During this process I take notes, draw a little and listen intently to the story teller’s tale.
Drawing on the Aboriginal construct of Dadirri, (‘deep listening’), this confidential conversation totally informs the composition, colour pallet and the iconography of the work.
The skill of 'deep listening' with all my senses is pivotal to the integrity of these works.
This portrait landscape tells the story of a mother and five generations of her family. Private Commission. Egg tempera on wood. Diameter 60cm 2025.
This Portrait Landscape tells the complex story of love across the continents of Europe to Australia. .Private commission. Egg tempera Completed 2016.
This Portrait Landscape tells the story of one woman’s life both professionally and personally . Private Commission for a 60th Birthday. Egg Tempera. Completed 2024.
Detail of Portrait Landscape. 2018.
In studio, triptych work in process. 2014.