Wild Banksia

$4200

Acrylic

103 x 123cm

"Growing up in the Redlands, I have a deep appreciation for the native bushland that surrounds Brisbane. Exploring these landscapes and observing local flora continues to influence my artistic practice today.

'Wild Banksia' is inspired by the banksia tree, a distinctive species found throughout the bushland ecosystems of Greater Brisbane. The painting depicts a single tree bearing warm yellow flowers and seed pods. Banksias rely on serotiny, an ecological adaptation in which seeds are held within closed structures and released only in response to environmental triggers such as fire.

Created using layers of ink, pigment and water spray, the work embraces both intention and chance. Flowing marks, drips and organic forms emerged through the process, allowing the image of the tree to gradually reveal itself within the composition.

The banksia’s ability to regenerate after disturbance resonates deeply with my own experience following a spinal cord injury. Through 'Wild Banksia', I reflect on cycles of challenge, adaptation and renewal that connect human experience with the natural environment. The banksia stands as a symbol of the bushland ecosystems that have long defined Greater Brisbane, from its bayside edges to inner-city, tree-lined streets. The work showcases both the resilience of a remarkable native species and the landscapes that continue to shape Brisbane’s identity and my connection to it.