Eucalyptus Blossom

By Sarah Pondevie

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An exploration with a short depth of field and intimate detail, delving into the nuances of colour and light that play over the leaves and branches, I immerse myself and the viewer in the world of nature. Plants that that thrive along the coast are tough, like the ancestors new and old who call this home. There is a gentle beauty in blossoms that bring life not only in regeneration but in providing sustenance to other creatures. I liken these to intergenerational relationships where the wisdom of the old provides a safe place for the new.

Pastels

50 x 70

Framed

I am an award winning West Australian artist who grew up in Walyalup (Fremantle) and work primarily in pastels and oils. I have a duality of styles, either with realistic botanical paintings or creating impressionistic still lives, seascapes and landscapes. I am mostly known for my pastel work: in 2022 I won First Prize in the Pastel Society of WA annual exhibition. I also like to work in oils, this year winning the Plein Air Award at the WASA exhibition. I use strong design elements in my composition, focusing on vibrant light, colours in shadows and reflected light. This is particularly evident in my botanical works. Coastal trees capture my imagination; there is an admirable tenacity to living in such harsh conditions. In 2022 I was resident artist at Rottnest. Most visitors come for the sun and beautiful beaches, but I was moved by the dramatic skies and windswept Tea Trees.Trees represent ancestry past and present: they are living history: old and new in one, nurturing our environment for the future. Aged bark along with flowering blossoms symbolise generational growth and historical knowledge. Proteas and Eucalyptus thrive along the coastal plains, their flowers hidden like jewels in tough foliage.