Oil on Canvas, 152 x 102 cm

Sugar gums display the most fascinating patterns in their bark as the trees age. This painting shows strong contrasts between the patches of creamy-coloured and soft-violet and blue skin versus the dark umber and burnt sienna of its scars and knots. Patterns resembling powerful owls – Australia’s largest owl – gaze directly at the viewer, while others suggest other Australian birds such as kookaburras and the crane-like brolga. At the same time shapes reminiscent of dingoes and even humans slip and slide out of focus.

$4650