The year has started on a bleak note, with devastating fires in Australia, the threat of escalating conflicts, and viruses brought about by overpopulation and modern living conditions. As a result, I've been ruminating on the current state of affairs and have begun a painting titled "Storm Over Curse."
I used to reside in the Riverina region of Australia in the city of Wagga Wagga, a picturesque location surrounded by stunning landscapes that served as an endless source of inspiration. However, not everything that appeared beautiful was good for the land. Australia has faced the negative impacts of introduced flora since the arrival of white settlers, and one such invasive species was Salvation Jane, also known as Patterson's Curse. Although initially brought to the country as a source of food for sheep, the plant thrived in droughts and proved to be a valuable food source for sheep and goats. Sadly, horses and dairy cows were poisoned by it, and its overabundance has now made it a scourge on the countryside.
"Storm Over Curse" is a painting that brings together two "Curses," one being the introduced weed, and the other being waste plastic.
