Originally, the painting was done with acrylic and sprayed with a high gloss finish.

Artwork Synopsis:

This painting, titled ‘Survival’, depicts a Tasmanian Devil, rendered in a style inspired by Van Gogh’s passionate brushwork and textured impasto. The cool tones of the starry night sky, reminiscent of Van Gogh’s famous painting Starry Night, hover above the Tasmanian Devil in contrast with the warm, fiery hues that envelop the devil’s feet and the surrounding flames 

Van Gogh's technique in Starry Night deliberately avoided traditional blending; instead, he meticulously layered individual strokes of colour, allowing the viewer’s eyes and mind to perform an optical fusion of colour blending. This deliberate application creates a captivating illusion, engaging the observer’s perception. Similarly, in the Survival painting, whether viewed in person or captured through photography, the interplay of hues and materials produces a dynamic and different visual experience. Through this masterful manipulation of optical perception, the artwork embodies a genuine artistic illusion, inviting viewers into a realm where perception and reality intertwine.

This painting aims at raising awareness of Tasmania’s native endangered animals during the devastating bushfire season. I was inspired to paint this painting when Tasmania faced recent bushfires on the North-West Coast, following lightning strikes that ravaged the land and displaced its inhabitants. 

During bushfire season, native and endangered Tasmanian wildlife will lose their shelter, their food sources, and their familiar habitats. The Tasmanian Devil, perched upon a log amidst encroaching flames, embodies the fragile balance between survival and peril. Its expression is not one of aggression, but of profound fear. 

This painting also stands as a tribute and a symbol of gratitude to every brave soul, volunteer or professional, who fights to protect Tasmania. A testament to the compassion and courage that define the firefighting community.  May this painting serve as a heartfelt reminder to encourage awareness, compassion, and action in safeguarding Tasmania’s native wildlife and forests. Let it also stand as a sincere thank you to every firefighter who has tirelessly sacrificed time away from their loved ones to keep us safe. Your courage and dedication inspire us all, and we are forever grateful. 

Each print is produced using ‘Canson Infinity Rag Photographique’, a premium, 100% cotton, museum-grade white Fine Art paper renowned for its exceptional quality and durability. Designed to meet the rigorous longevity standards of galleries and museums, my prints feature vibrant, long-lasting colours that remain vivid for years to come, enhanced by superior UV protection. Additionally, the paper is acid-free and certified to prevent degradation over time, ensuring your artwork maintains its beauty and integrity for generations. This combination of quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship offers outstanding value, delivering professional-grade art that stands the test of time.