Artists statement

“A nature painting commenced on site and completed in the studio. More of a morass lying to the west of Yan Yean Reservoir in Dunnets Road, this intriguing site has nevertheless all the primeval qualities associated with swamps in general. The rhythmic movements of the old red gums dominate the surrounding bush with the tranquility of the water from recent rains. Painted directly onto a saturated sheet of rough paper, the large masses of foliage and integrated sky areas determine the tonal and colour key of the painting, while the strong horizontality of the lower water area stabilizes the design and contrasts with the vertical and oblique rhythms of tree trunks. The white of trunks and branches have largely been achieved by the lifting of colour with a stiff wet brush although slight touches of bodycolour are added for a few critical accents. Such a subject and its execution demands a sound concept and plan before any painting is commenced as the wayward nature of the medium demands great control. The painting must be bold and decisive. Sometimes the qualities of the medium should be allowed to take over in its wateriness and its soft and hard edge properties.” John Borrack

Historical information

Part of the John and Gillian Borrack Federation Bequest, donated to the City of Whittlesea in December 2001 by Gillian and John Borrack

Inscriptions & markings

John Borrack