For many years now I have returned perennially to the vast wilds of Wilcannia in far western New South Wales. From my first visit en route to the Flinders ranges I was enchanted by the seemingly endless horizons and meandering grandeur of the Darling / Baaka river. Close and enduring friendships I’ve formed with the owners, custodians and traditional elders of this part of Australia have leavened my love and understanding of this mysterious place. In recent times I have embedded my connection to the river, its surroundings, creatures and seasons by building a studio and home overlooking a broad bend of the winding expanse of water. Out beyond the riparian forests are vast paddocks that are dead flat and meadows of rich and varying ecology, hypnotically long trails for morning walks and shaded creek beds for a few hours at a time of painting. This exhibition touches on an obsession, a love affair with the natural world, and of course with painting. I’ve dreamed for decades of a life of painting the same subject a thousand ways, a fantasy within a fantasy, of seeing the same thing anew each day. I’ve made paintings at and about most corners of the globe but to me Wilcannia is the most painterly place of all. I’m sure I’ll carry on visiting the most beautiful places on earth (how lucky am I !?) but for now my new home and old friend has filled my cup.
Luke Sciberras
Wilcannia, 2025
Please note that the catalogue for this exhibition is digital only. A printed catalogue will not be produced.
Images provided courtesy Silversalt photography.
This page is an archive of a past exhibition. Please note that works may no longer be available as shown and prices may be subject to change to reflect current market value. Please contact the gallery for assistance. Thank you.
