Playing? (around) 2015-2018

A sub-set of the word series, the Playing? (around) paintings, combine loose brushwork with crisp lines to achieve an image that appears simple but is lush and complex. On a ground of multi-layered brushstrokes, the word “playing?” is added around a geometric shape. This group touches on both the joy inherent in the artistic process and the generally held notion that art is not a serious profession to consider, therefore questioning where work and play intersect. Sometimes described as falling within the category of painterly minimalism, the Playing? (around) paintings are influenced by sources as diverse as light on water, various indigenous Australian artists, ornamental writing and dense vegetation.

I am drawn to a complexity that may initially appear simple, but upon multiple and sustained views results in a compelling and rich experience.