“Birds’ nests are always rare and special. Birds and nests are strong and fragile at the same time. The variety of material used in construction relative to location is intriguing; some have string, paper, fur, hair- some are held together with spider web. They are a testament to collecting, creativity and pragmatism even before you consider all the elements of symbolism.” – Christine Wrest-Smith, 2019
Christine Wrest-Smith uses birds’ nests as a means to explore ideas of personal territory, the home and self, shelter and space. The unique characteristics of each nest are masterfully rendered in either oil paint or charcoal; strength and delicacy beautifully portrayed through tonal nuances and the careful selection of medium. She deftly varies her technique to echo the individuality of each nest or petal, those swiftly and liberally woven are loosely drawn, while those meticulously constructed are built up with precise layers of paint.
Wrest-Smith’s empty nests are profound reminders of extinct and threatened bird species. She poignantly illuminates themes of environmental loss, erosion and decay through her drawings of flowers, leaves, skulls and bones. Cycles of life and death, creation and destruction are poetically refracted through the traditional still life themes of vanitas and memento mori.
Image above: Christine Wrest-Smith Jars of glass 2023 oil on linen 76.5 x 76.5 cm Congratulations to Sue Anderson, Dale …
Image above: Mullock Heaps, Lightening Ridge 2022 oil on linen 91 x 122 cm. Image courtesy of the artist. …
Image above: Mary Tonkin After, Kalorama 2021 oil on linen 183 x 320 cm We are delighted to share this …
Martin King ledger of the lost years ‘24 and ‘25′ N.D graphite, watercolour and gouache on drafting film and paper …
Image above: Dianne Fogwell Prescience 2023 linocut and woodcut 4,500 x 145 cm – installation at Geelong Gallery Congratulations to …
Image above: Raymond Arnold Congratulations to Raymond Arnold, who has been Highly Commended in the 2024 Glover Prize, and to …
Image above: Greg Johns The Kiss (Buried Alive) 2022-23 Corten steel 140 x 486 x 18cm “Congratulations to Greg Johns …
The three adjoining properties which comprise the Australian Galleries Sculpture Park in Porcupine Ridge are now on the market. The …
Image above: Marina Strocchi Dusk in the Hills 2023 acrylic on linen 60 x 93 cm Marina Strocchi’s insightful writing …
Image above: Greg Johns Sit Down Fella (Contemplative) 2023 Corten steel and bronze 260 cm high To view a selection …
Image above: Barbie Kjar and her winning work No Expectations 2024 Photograph by Louisa Chircop Congratulations to Barbie Kjar, Winner …
‘David Frazer is primarily a graphic artist, a printmaker, who in his work creates a little microcosm, or a convincing …
Image above: Simon Normand Map – Australia 2023 acrylic on canvas and mixed media 145 x 170 cm Simon Normand’s …