Landscapes inspire artists

The South West will host three masters of brushstrokes at a special Yallingup Galleries exhibition that opens on Easter Saturday.

After decades of painting Australian land and seascapes, Brendon Darby, Douglas Kirsop and Larry Mitchell are releasing some of their most remarkable paintings.

Their ability to create striking landscape images has made them significant figures in contemporary Australian painting, and attracted high praise from peers through extensive awards and prizes.

Mitchell’s style is distinctive, and highlights some of the world’s most captivating regions which are under threat from global warming.

He also donates a percentage of sales from his artwork to support marine conservation groups.

Taking a different perspective, but one of equal environmental significance, Brendon Darby focuses on fire and its effect on open spaces, particularly in the regions of the Kimberley.

“If you consider the majesty in a fire, it’s easy to lose connection with the potential danger it holds, ” Darby said.

“As a vehicle for painting, it’s a perfect subject as it’s full of power, grace, light and, at the same time, terror.

“I love the durable beauty but equally I want to make a comment about global warming.”

Douglas Kirsop feels some of his artwork also serves as an historical documentation of landscapes that have undergone change, usually due to human intervention.

The exhibition opens on April 19 at 6pm and will be open daily until May 2 at the Yallingup Galleries’ Garden Art Studio on Marrinup Drive.