Saddleback from Werri Lagoon

The second in a series of paintings that I’m doing around the theme of human impact on the natural world. Specifically the colossal mistakes that humans continue to make when attempting to control the natural elements. Numerous attempts were made over many decades to control the sea entry to Werri Lagoon at Gerrigong NSW but as each infrastructure project was completed the ocean responded and filled it with sand. Resulting in total abandonment from the local authority who now simply dig it open as necessary and allow it to close over again. The first painting is Werri Beach Sea Channel that sold to a collector very much interested in the subject of mans folly over nature. Saddleback mountain looms large over the lagoon scenery and this aspect is looking away from the ocean whereas the first looked towards the ocean. Very soft hillocks appear across the lake, almost an illusion of beauty but front and centre of the painting shows concrete and steel remnants from the failed infrastructure projects. The colours are muted and the painting serene with a figure just visible to the right of the concrete indicating the harmony that can exist between mankind and the natural environment if we choose to listen.