Harmony in Green

Red-backed Fairy-wrens (Malurus melanocephalus)

Size 91.4 cm x 91.4 cm (36 in x 36 in)

Acrylic on canvas

SOLD

Inspired after birdwatching in far north tropical Queensland, where verdant hills and rainforest canopy enfold lush grazing pastures, cane fields and banana plantations.

A family group of Red-backed Fairy-wrens had taken up residence in the long grass near Camp Creek, sheltered from heavy monsoon rain by the sprawling passionfruit vines and shady trees.

I have always sketched trees – each species with its own particular aspect – and I was attracted by the pattern of bark and spiralling branch structure of this tree.

This painting hung in the Sydney Royal show in April 2009, where it was acquired by a private collector.