This painting tells a story of contrast, resilience, and joy — one that feels so deeply Australian. It’s a dance between the lightness of the gum flowers and the sturdiness of the banksia leaves.
The gum blossoms float across the canvas like little bursts of laughter — their soft, feathery petals reaching out in every direction, celebrating life in all its colourful unpredictability. They don’t just bloom; they shimmer, unapologetically delicate yet utterly resilient, much like the women I work with — carrying softness and strength side by side.
Behind them, the banksia leaves stand tall and grounded. Their sharp-edged shapes speak of survival, of roots gripping deep into dry earth, of weathering harsh winds and still holding their form. They are a beautiful reminder that strength doesn’t always roar — sometimes it looks like standing firm when everything around you changes.
The whole background hums with life — vibrant, messy, bright — much like the Australian bush after rain. Layers of pinks, yellows, oranges, and greens swirl together, reminding us that life is never one shade or one feeling. There’s room for the delicate and the tough, the joyful and the serious.
This piece is a reflection of how we too can both carry softness and grit, colour and calm. We are capable of holding lightness and strength at the same time.
When you look at this painting, I want you to remember:
You can be wild and brave.
You can be gentle and fierce.
You are allowed to be a whole, vibrant garden — not just one tidy little flower
***
This original artwork is hand-painted on paper to fit a standard A4 frame. It comes with a printed copy of The Story in the Brushstrokes — a written reflection inspired by the piece — and includes tracked delivery within Australia for peace of mind
