PAINTING IS MAGICAL to me. As a writer and editor, I understand how the right combination of words can create an unforgettable character or vivid scene, but how a series of brushstrokes on a canvas results in a beautiful landscape or still-life is a mystery to me. I have concluded that some very special alchemy must be at play. And I am in awe of artists.
To celebrate our fifth annualart exhibition with Michael Reid, we selected six artists and gave them the theme ‘Our Country’ to inspire their work. Having had a sneak preview, I can report they are as diverse as they are beautiful, and I admit that this is my favourite exhibition to date. From Vicki Yatjiki Cullinan’s striking paintings of her Country in remote South Australia, to Jo White’s almost lifelike depictions of country towns, there is something for everyone in this exhibition, which to my mind means is already a success. My goal was to have a wide range of artistic styles and interpretations of the Australian landscape – natural and urban. It was to be inclusive, just like our country.
