Banksias in Reflection

Banksias in Reflection began with a gift of banksias from my mum’s partner, who lives in Drouin in Gippsland, a place known for its abundant rainfall and green landscapes, especially compared to central Victoria where it is hot and dry and has less rainfall. The flowers carried a sense of that landscape with them, arriving full and heavy with character.

This painting presented a particular challenge. Placing a mirror beneath the still life created a reflected image that demanded careful alignment and symmetry, making the process feel as though I was working on two paintings at once. The reflection became an important part of the work, and I was drawn to its loose, painterly quality. Banksias are one of my favourite flowers to paint; they are not soft or forgiving, but rough and structural, offering strength and form that rewards close observation.