Between a rock and a hard place. 2006 Oil on Linen 750 x 1050mm $4500
We often find ourselves stuck between a rock and a hard place. It may be current circumstance, but often it is where we are planted. We have no control but we need to survive. Yes, but more than this thrive where we are. This old banksia has found such a place. Perhaps even because of the protection of the rocks is able to live a full healthy life.
Between a rock
A tree with an easy life may grow straight and tall but does not develop character. It may be condemned to be only another tree in the forest. So also with humans, depth of character only comes through struggle and pain. Here is great hope. The secret is to make the best of were you are.
and a hard place.
This old Banksia not only grows in sand between two large rocks but its hard place is on the edge of a thousand foot cliff, exposed and wind swept. But it has no competition from other plants and even those pesky human vandals that collect firewood.
Sentinel it holds back the leaf litter and in doing so provides for itself vital nutrients. The rock crevice also provides protection just as Moses hides in a crevice as a much more awesome being passed by.
A hard place is also a metaphoric place. Standing on the edge of things, living on the edge, a precipice – it breeds greatness.
Australia as a landscape is populated by trees and characterized by its’ trees. Each painting in the series is a complex metaphor for aspects of human life. Trees are chosen for their sculptural presence and placed forward and central in the canvas much like a portrait painting.