Phoebe Gilder
Frensham School
DUSTY REVERIE
Collection of Work
Oil paint on wood, dry point etching
There is something special about a mob of Brahmans. Their synchronised movement across the rugged landscape speaks of strength and serenity, while their gentle gaze reveals a deep connection to the environment. My body of work investigates Brahman cattle in the Australian outback, blending dry point etching and oil painting to illustrate the Brahmans’ distinctive features; prominent humps, wrinkles and long ears, tranquil nature and resilience. The subtle, dusty sky communicates the dreamlike atmosphere, while the etched textures of the terrain represent the vast, peaceful outback. My intention was to convey a harmonious balance of strength, grace and quiet wisdom.
My artmaking practice has been influenced by the study and interpretation of the following artists: Mark Coombe, Rosalie Gascoigne, Annika Romeyn, Roger Ackling, Jane Luxton, Félix Henri Bracquemond.
Marker's Commentary
This collection of works pays homage to the iconic Brahman cattle and the Australian pastoral scene. Across the three panels, the body of work cleverly captures the unique identity and character of this animal. The single oil painting strategically composes the herd with the bull elevated and leering in the centre. The ‘very outback’ warm, low-key lighting echoes the dusty rural landscape and connects to the tertiary colour palette applied for the cattle. The softly muted sky blue is managed knowingly. Despite the immense congregation, there is also a feeling of calm throughout the representation of these resilient animals.
The etchings, with the cattle grazing, display the immensity and physicality of the feeding herd. The rendering of the forms is consistent and informed, expertly handling the etching process. The use of colour in the etching seamlessly connects to the painting. The texture of the animals resonates with the harshness of the landscape. This sophisticated series successfully presents the cattle in a gentle and stylistically informed manner throughout the two art forms of painting and printmaking.