6 Current Australian Landscape Artists
6 Current Australian Landscape Artists
Let us introduce you to some of the current Australian landscape artists in Australia – John Wilson, Tedd Lewis, Jeremy Western, Graham Gercken, John Bradley, and Robert Mortimer. Each artist brings a unique flare to the Australian art scene, using their talent to capture the country’s natural beauty in distinct yet equally captivating ways.
John Wilson: Creating Wonders with a Brush
Meet John Wilson, one of Australia’s eminent landscape artists. With a career spanning over four decades, he has managed to capture the heart of Australia in his beautiful and vibrant paintings. A native of Katoomba in the Blue Mountains, John Wilson’s love for art began at a young age. It was in the serene and picturesque landscapes of his hometown where he found his muses and his passion for landscape painting.
“Nature is not only all that is visible to the eye.. it also includes the inner pictures of the soul.” – Edvard Munch
John Wilson’s work indeed reflects the soulful connection he has with nature. His work is not just a representation of the Australian landscape; it’s an intimate portrayal of its spirit and essence.
The Journey of an Artist
Born and raised amidst the magnificent beauty of the Blue Mountains, John developed a profound admiration for the rugged majesty that surrounded him. This landscape, with its breathtaking colors and mood-evoking panoramas, etched a deep love for nature in his heart. John, who had always been captivated by the allure of paintings and the magic of artists, did not truly immerse himself in the world of art until he was in his mid-twenties. Prior to this, he had been earning his living as a professional musician, a path quite different from the one he would eventually find himself on. Painting, for John, started out as a mere hobby, a simple pastime he wandered into. Little did he know, it would soon become his life’s true passion.
Immersing himself in the depths of Australia’s unique topography, John Wilson crafts oil paintings that encapsulate the elusive charms of the continent’s landscape. His remarkable mastery over his medium has established him as one of Australia’s preeminent oil painters, a revered figure whose discerning eye is frequently solicited as a judge and tutor. Born amidst the majestic Blue Mountains of New South Wales, Wilson’s early years were cradled in the lap of raw grandeur, where he nurtured an intimate reverence for the landscape’s dazzling hues and capricious moods. This childhood sentiment continues to breathe life into his artwork, making each piece a vivid testament to his enduring love for the Australian terrain.
John Wilson attended Julian Ashton Art School in Sydney, where he honed his skills under notable artists. He spent several years in Europe, studying the works of the great masters and drawing inspiration from their style and technique. Upon his return to Australia, Wilson established himself as a respected artist, receiving numerous accolades for his work. His paintings have been exhibited in prestigious galleries in Australia and abroad, and they have found homes in private collections worldwide.
John Wilson’s Style
John Wilson’s artistry is an exceptional blend of meticulous precision and vibrant impressionism. Each stroke of his brush reveals the rainbow-hued majesty of the Australian landscape, whether it’s the verdant expanse of the Blue Mountains or the awe-inspiring spectacle of an Australian plain. Wilson’s paintings capture some of the more elusive qualities of Australia’s landscapes. Wilson’s canvases are more than mere paintings; they are invitations. He extends an open hand to the onlookers, urging them to immerse themselves in the profound beauty that is Australia’s natural scenery. His work is a living testament to his deep affection for his homeland and his unparalleled artistic prowess.
Wilson’s Accomplishments
John Wilson boasts a rich tapestry of accolades as a multi-award winning artist. With an impressive portfolio of 47 solo exhibitions and a plethora of group shows, his reputation of excellence transcends the borders of his native Australia. This prolific artist has showcased his exquisite works in prestigious galleries spanning London, USA, Japan, Canada, Beijing, China, and Seoul, Korea. His coveted masterpieces, teeming with life and vibrancy, have found a home in a variety of private, corporate, and public collections around the globe. His artistic works have been widely replicated, including eminent publications such as ‘Visual Artists of the Blue Mountains’ and ‘ArtFiles’. In addition to a collection of feature articles in the renowned Australian Artist and International Artist magazines
John’s Masterclass workshops, a cornucopia of knowledge and skill, are highly sought after, as evidenced by their rapid booking – a glowing tribute to his renowned gentle teaching style. These workshops are not merely lessons, but a journey into the heart of artistry, where students are privy to a wealth of expert information. John generously shares the techniques of the Old Australian landscape masters, such as Streeton, Roberts, Gruner, and Johnson. He unveils the secrets of painting landscapes that brim with beauty and excitement, thus creating a unique learning experience that is as enriching as it is inspiring.
John Wilson’s incredible journey and his breathtaking art make him a true gem in the Australian art scene. Australia can indeed be proud to call him one of its own.
| Notable Works | Award |
|---|---|
| Blue Mountains | Winner, Wynne Prize |
| Outback Sunset | Finalist, Archibald Prize |
Tedd Lewis: Capturing the Subtleties of Nature
When it comes to the Australian art scene, there’s no denying the profound impact of the brilliant Tedd Lewis. An artist extraordinaire, Lewis has left an indelible mark on the canvas of the contemporary art world.
“Art is the lie that enables us to realize the truth.” – Pablo Picasso
This Picasso quote seems to resonate with Lewis’s philosophy deeply. His artistry revolves around the exploration of truth through the lens of illusion, creating visual narratives that invite viewers to question their perception.
The Journey Of An Artist
Born and bred in Australia, the charm of the country’s natural beauty permeates Lewis’s work. Lewis honed his artistic skills at the prestigious National Art School in Sydney, where he studied fine arts. He has been a professional artist for over three decades, exhibiting in galleries across Australia and internationally. From his inaugural exhibition, the art world immediately recognized Lewis’s talent. Subsequent years have seen his reputation grow, and his works are now highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Tedd states, “I am most recently inspired by the beautiful country around Ophir where I live, Tree lined dirt lanes and roads, creeks with river oaks, waterfalls, blue hills and rugged natural beauty that inspires me every day. Gum trees and saplings with wild flowers scattered among them make wonderful subjects. By living in, absorbing and being a part of my natural surroundings every day, I feel I am able to convey my feelings of peace, beauty and my love of nature and Australian bush into my paintings.”
Tedd’s Artistic Style
“I try to tell a story with every picture.” Tedd walks in the footprints of the timeless tradition of realism, while leaving a trail of contemporary nuances. His palette splashes the canvas with unique hues and strokes, manifesting his penchant for experimentation with acrylics and oils. These mediums serve as his magic wand, conjuring subtle shifts in light and atmosphere that breathe life into his landscapes. A muse often found in the verses of the renowned Australian bush poet Banjo Paterson, Lewis has crafted a series of works that echo Paterson’s poetic landscapes. His masterpieces grace galleries and private collections across Australia, the USA, England, Norway, New Zealand, and Europe, enchanting art lovers worldwide.Lewis’s talent for capturing the ethereal beauty and light of rural landscapes is nothing short of extraordinary. His heart seems to beat in sync with the rhythm of the Outback, the bush, and droving scenes, yet he is equally smitten by the allure of Sydney’s sun-kissed beaches, the vivacious Harbour, and the picturesque Rocks area in central Sydney. His brush strokes transport the viewer to the idyllic landscapes of the late 19th century, occasionally punctuated by an urban setting’s modernity. His realist depictions harmonize with a contemporary symphony of vibrant colors and impressionist renditions, creating a visual melody that resonates with the viewer.
A recurring motif in Lewis’s creations is the human element, seamlessly woven into his canvases, reminiscent of impressionist masterpieces. His subjects, whether leisurely lounging by the sea or peacefully strolling through a forest, or engaged in quiet labor, are depicted with an empathetic gentleness. The absence of intricate detailing renders them an integral part of the environment, as though they are a natural extension of the landscape.A characteristic feature of Lewis’s paintings is the soft light filtering through the clouds, creating an ambiance devoid of harsh contrasts. His color palette, rich and saturated, varies with each painting, lending a unique character to every piece. Each Australian landscape painted by Tedd Lewis exudes a gentle, dream-like quality, a testament to his intimate understanding and deep affection for the land he calls home.
Jeremy Western: The Vivid Impressionist
When it comes to richness and depth in Australian art, Jeremy Western is the exception. A traditionalist at heart, Jeremy’s works are reminiscent of the old masters, but with a new boldness and vibrancy. His oil paintings beautifully capture the Australian landscape’s depth and colour, from its rugged mountains to its serene coastlines.
| Birth Year | Artistic Style | Notable Works |
|---|---|---|
| 1992 | Landscape painting | Brightness After The Rain, Time For A Cuppa, Welcoming Lights |
An Artist’s Journey
Jeremy’s formative years unfolded south of Adelaide in the idyllic tranquility of a rural farm, a setting that nurtured his profound affection for the distinctive Australian landscape. This setting became the fertile ground for his deep-seated love of the Australian landscape, a love that would shape his artistic destiny. The tender age of 11 marked a pivotal moment in his life as he and his family moved states, and settled in the town of Bathurst, where he was first introduced to the nearby Blue Mountains. His gift for painting was discovered early one morning in the back room of his family’s temporary rental house. Someone had given him a box of oil paints. The house was silent as his eight-year-old sister sat and watched on with complete faith in her older brother, who had just expressed his intention to paint a horse and sunset from a puzzle box image. After five hours, sitting on a chair in his shorty pyjamas, the result was stunningly mature and realistic. Since that morning, compelled by a creative genius that has been unrelenting as well as inspiring, he has dedicated countless hours adding to his artistic knowledge and abilities. Creative in every area of his life – in musical composition, handywork, invention and anything he sets his mind to, painting is just another one of Jeremy’s many facets of overwhelming giftedness. As a boiler maker by trade, his primary residence with his wife and five children still lies in Bathurst, west of the Blue Mountains; a location that undeniably inspires his captivating works.
Jeremy’s Signature Style
Jeremy Western’s art is distinctive for its boldness and attention to detail. With an unwavering passion, he strives to create artworks that are not merely visually appealing, but also encapsulate the elusive elements of light, atmosphere, and depth. As an artist, he has truly mastered the technical skills to bring about paintings that possess seemingly effortless beauty and impact. His work showcases the vibrant colors and breath-taking beauty of the Australian landscape, be it the blueness of the Blue Mountains or the majestic hues of an outback sunset. His use of bold colors, dramatic lighting, and a keen eye for detail bring his landscapes to life, creating a visual spectacle that’s both captivating and deeply moving. Jeremy’s paintings are surprisingly vivid in real life, making them a bold and beautiful addition to any living space. Through his paintings, Jeremy invites the viewer to experience the Australian landscape’s depth and beauty. His work is a testament to his love for his homeland and his extraordinary talent as an artist.
Jeremy’s Scope
Jeremy boasts an expansive artistic repertoire. Although his artwork focuses mainly on Australian landscapes, his abilities reach to incredible breadth. Having sold many works of art over the years via Australian Paintings , Bluethumb and by commission, his scope of accomplished works is ever expanding and challenging him to new breadths of possibility.
Blue Mountains Landscapes: Jeremy’s Blue Mountains paintings capture the ethereal beauty of the Blue Mountains. His use of cool and bold tones encapsulates the tranquil serenity of this natural wonder.
Beach Landscapes: His beach landscapes are a vibrant display of Australia’s pristine coastlines. His canvases pulsate with the energy of crashing waves and shimmering sands, a testament to his knack for capturing movement and light.
Gum Tree Paintings: These paintings highlight Jeremy’s skillful portrayal of Australia’s iconic gum trees. His use of earthy tones and textured brushwork adds a layer of depth and realism to these majestic arboreal portraits.
Country Landscapes: Jeremy’s country landscapes breathe life into the rustic charm of Australia’s rural vistas. His sweeping brush strokes echo the vastness of open fields.
Australian Animal Paintings: Jeremy also showcases an amazing ability for animal paintings. His pieces are a striking blend of accurate depiction and artistic interpretation.
VISIT https://www.australianpaintings.com.au/ by Jeremy
Graham Gercken: The Traditionalist
When it comes to contemporary Australian landscape art, the name Graham Gercken sparkles like a jewel. Born in the South Australian seaport of Wallaroo in 1960, Gercken’s journey from a small-town boy to a world-renowned artist is truly inspiring. Gercken’s love for art was evident from an early age. He was self-taught and, by the tender age of 12, he was already creating amazing pieces that hinted at his future prowess.
Tedd Lewis has made a name for himself as a self-taught artist, specializing in land and seascapes. His primary residence lies nestled in the heart of the Blue Mountains, located west of Sydney, a location that undeniably inspires his captivating work. His professional journey began at a popular tourist spot known as the Three Sisters. Armed with his easel and paints, he would sell his creations to the throngs of tourists visiting daily. His artistry was met with great admiration, leading to a decade-long tenure of painting at Echo Point.
In 1998, Lewis had the privilege of living as an Artist In Residence at Dunmoochin, Victoria. This was the residence of Clifton Pugh, a celebrated Australian artist. This enriching experience was followed by a four-year sojourn to China in 2003. Here, he mingled with talented Chinese artists who introduced him to the intricate techniques of ink wash painting, adding another dimension to his artistic repertoire.
A Brush with Nature
Gercken’s passion for the Australian landscape is clearly visible in his work. He’s a master at capturing the raw beauty and untamed wild of Australia, from its sun-kissed beaches to its majestic outback.
“I find the Australian Landscape to be one of the richest and most diverse in the world, and it’s a constant source of inspiration for me.”
Award-winning Excellence
Over the years, Gercken’s art has received international acclaim and a host of awards. His journey is a testament to his dedication, talent, and love for Australian nature.
| Year | Award |
|---|---|
| 2006 | Winner, Mortimore Prize for Realism |
| 2007 | Winner, International Artist Magazine |
Today, Graham Gercken stands as one of Australia’s most prominent landscape artists, his work a beautiful ode to the country’s stunning natural beauty.
John Bradley: The Idealist
Born in 1952, Bradley developed a passion for art at a young age, drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscapes of his Australian home. With a career spanning over 40 years, John has earned the prestigious title of Master Artist. His meticulous attention to detail, coupled with his innate ability to weave a compelling narrative within his paintings, have been lauded for generations. His unique manipulation of light and expert use of space and dimensions to guide the viewer through a visual journey, make his art pieces highly coveted by collectors.
Known for capturing the breathtaking beauty of his homeland, John Bradley’s paintings are a visual symphony resonating with passion and talent. They offer an intimate journey into the artist’s heart, revealing his profound admiration for Australia’s natural grandeur. Bradley’s artistic journey is a testament to his skill. His canvas is not merely a reflection of the Australian landscape; rather, he wields his paintbrush like a sculptor’s chisel, shaping reality into a form more beautiful, more vibrant, and more enchanting.
Bradley’s Artistic Style
John’s artistic prowess manifests in various forms, from traditional realism to impressionistic expressions, all rendered in rich, luminous oils. His use of broad brush strokes and palette knife techniques speaks to his versatility and creativity. His artistic style is predominantly focused on landscape paintings. Some of his notable works include ‘Australian Outback’, ‘Coastal Cliffs’, and ‘Sunrise over the Ocean’, each piece a vivid portrayal of the country’s incredibly diverse landscape.
John states, “Capturing the light is everything! It is always the light that I remember most about any location. It is my inspiration.” This passion for illumination is palpable in each of his works. One’s gaze is instantly captivated by the vibrant hues that dominate John Bradley’s paintings. He encourages viewers to truly observe the Australian landscape, to discover the hidden reds, purples, and greys that subtly grace the foliage, and to revel in the brilliant bursts of color presented by the native birds and flowers. This keen observation and vivid depiction set John’s works apart from the rest. His unique interpretation of light dancing on trees and foliage is a testament to his distinctive style.
Bradley’s Accomplishments
John’s versatility is widely acknowledged within the Australian art community. His portfolio boasts an impressive range of subject matter, including the captivating Australian landscapes, serene seascapes, nostalgic 20th century street scenes, enchanting night scenes, breathtaking sunsets and sunrises, misty mornings, the majestic valleys of the Blue Mountains, detailed locomotives, aircraft, lighthouses, and ships. Many of his works serve as a gentle reminder of a simpler time, when life moved at a slower, more meaningful pace.
John Wilson, a renowned Australian artist, has made his mark on the global art scene with his original artworks adorning the walls of collectors from Australia, New Zealand, America, the UK and Canada. He has secured substantial publishing contracts with the largest American art licensing company. His creative genius is not confined to canvas alone; it also graces the realms of major international jigsaw, cross-stitch, print, and wall hangings companies. Commercial entities, such as the iconic Akubra and various pharmacy chains, have further showcased his artistic prowess by featuring his images on their calendars.
John’s contributions to the art world extend beyond the visual medium. He has shared his expertise through a series of Masterclass Art DVDs, enabling art enthusiasts to learn from his techniques and approaches. Moreover, he has penned three art books, each a testament to his artistic journey and love for Australia. These include “Living Steam – Australian Locomotive Paintings,” a nostalgic homage to the age of steam engines, “Blue Mountains Magic,” a vibrant celebration of Australia’s majestic mountain ranges, and “A Journey Through Time,” a visual expedition through the annals of history.
Robert Mortimer – A Luminary Of The Artistic World
The fascination with painting, for Robert, took root in his tender years, and this fervor ultimately shaped his successful career as a signwriting business proprietor. This engagement allowed him the privilege of honing his brush control while also indulging his creative tendencies amidst a stable income source. However, over the years, the siren call of the artist’s canvas, inviting him to paint freestyle, grew ever more irresistible.
The Development Of An Artist
With the advent of retirement in 2015, the long-awaited opportunity to delve deeper into his artistic passion came knocking. A thirst for knowledge and refinement of his craft led him to art classes, and eventually, to joining the esteemed Caloundra Arts Centre Association. The vibrant exchange of ideas, wisdom, and inspiration with fellow artists at the association allowed him to flourish in every aspect of his painting journey. As a testament to his artistic prowess, he was a finalist in the “Local Artist, Local Content” category at the Caloundra Regional Gallery art show and has tasted sales success at numerous art shows, online and offline. His portfolio also boasts two privately commissioned pieces and a public mural at the Events Centre Caloundra.
Robert Mortimer’s Style
After a remarkable 45-year long career in the realms of sign, design, and visual advertising, Robert found himself gravitating back towards his first love – visual arts. His odyssey in the arts commenced with the delicate art of watercolors and drawing, eventually finding solace in the dynamic, free-flowing style of the Impressionists and their use of acrylics. His artistic aim is to encapsulate both the raw emotion and the stark realism found in portraiture and landscape, thus creating a visual symphony that tugs at the heartstrings of his viewers.
Renowned for his impressionistic artistic style, Mortimer wields his brushes primarily on stretched canvas, his weapon of choice being vibrant acrylics. His journey has taken him across the globe, where he has not only traversed vast landscapes but has also encountered a myriad of fascinating individuals. These experiences have become the wellspring of his artistic inspiration.
Conclusion
Australia’s art scene is richer for the contributions of these exceptional artists. Each, in their unique way, capturing the essence of the country’s stunning landscapes. These incredible works not only draw attention to the beauty of nature but also give us the ability to experience it in a special way from different points of view. Our country is fortunate to be able to call these artists our own.