Springbrook and Hinterland areas of Queensland - William Robinson Country!

I really love hinterland and rainforest regions- how the light contrasts with the dark. A sense of lightness, joy and creation mingled with a sense of shadow and mystery in a way that can be at times unsettling. Brisbane artist (whose own work is truly next level) Anita West initially introduced me to the work of Queensland art legend William Robinson. I have since been on a mission to try and see as many of his works in person as possible - some are quite transfixing in his ability to convey the non physical elements of places, spaces and essences.

We are lucky in Brisbane that there is an entire gallery of his work at the QUT William Robinson Gallery in the city situation in Old Government House - where the walls on which his work is displayed have been painted deep jewel tones. At the time we visited there was even a free community string concert playing which made it even more atmospheric!

There are some fabulous books sharing his life story and creative works - Highly recommend local writer Nick Earl’s William Robinson - A New Perspective and for pictorials, The Transfigured Landscape. I also recently visited HOTA on the gold coast who display one of his biggest works. Unfortunately a visit to the Gallery of New South Wales wasn’t so successful as his collection are not on display at the moment. Here are some of his works I photographed on my visits.

Last week we stayed in a beautiful contemporary style house at Springbrook Heartwood Cabin and spent a couple of days doing some walks at Springbrook - it had been many years since I had been there. Initially I had visited as a kid and I remember writing poems about the little red tipped native ferns I was so entranced! We did the longer walk at Purlingbrook Falls Circuit which was 6km including a very brisk swim in Warringa Pools. The energy with the water spray and wind created by the water drop at the base of the falls is truly magical. Lots more walks to do so we hope to go back soon.

So as you can see no shortage of inspiration to paint! From Springbrook Best of All Lookout you can see into Northern NSW Hinterland and this is the location (Huonbrook specifically) inland of Mullumbimby was inspired my large painting I am the River which was a reflection and processing of some transformational experiences I had connected to this place. My husband Steve has just finished crafting one enormous timber frame as it is finally completely dry. Oils take forever to dry and even longer in this environment but worth it I think for the blending and finish potential.