Fowlers Gap residency.
In May 2024, I was privileged enough to take part in a week-long artist residence at Fowlers Gap in far western NSW.
I was part of a group of 10 other Australian artists all working on location in one of the country’s most diverse, arid landscapes. The artists, all represented by Arthouse Gallery in Sydney, worked in a variety of mediums including ceramic, painting and photography.
It was an opportunity to not only enjoy the company of like-minded artists, but to expand the possibilities of producing works in a completely different subject and palette to what I was used too.
What I noticed immediately was the difference in light by comparison to the Tasmanian light I was so used to. This was a much whiter, stark light especially around midday. This took some adjusting too. Also, the obvious warm colour palette of the ground planes.
I found myself working entirely from what I was seeing as opposed to what I already knew.
After producing around 15 plein air paintings, 9 drawings and hundreds of photos, I came away with a much greater understanding than when I arrived.
I’ve already produced studio works from this residency, including Desert Pattern - Fowlers Gap, on a larger scale. This work was presented at Arthouse Gallery’s 30th Anniversary Group Exhibition in 2025.
This was a fantastic trip with a group of awesome artists. Lots of new friendships were made and I look forward to returning there in the near future.
I’m already mentally planning a possible future solo show based on Fowlers Gap!
