Artist David Hawkes explores beauty of Wedderburn bushland in new show at Campbelltown Arts Centre

Wedderburn artist David Hawkes has captured the beautiful bushland surrounding his home of almost 30 years as the inspiration for an exhibition at Campbelltown Arts Centre.

Wedderburn artist David Hawkes said his new exhibition, at Campbelltown Arts Centre, depicted his enjoyment of looking in, rather than looking at, his environment. Picture: Robert Pozo

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WEDDERBURN artist David Hawkes has captured the beautiful bushland surrounding his home of almost 30 years as the inspiration for an exhibition of his work at Campbelltown Arts Centre.

Hawkes has lived at Wedderburn since 1989 and is showing about 30 paintings in the exhibition which runs until Sunday, July 29.

Artist David Hawkes said the exhibition depicted works from the past 30 years of his life. Picture: Robert Pozo

He said the exhibition, Looking In: A Survey of David Hawkes from 1989 to Now, depicted his enjoyment of looking in, rather than looking at, his environment and the Wedderburn bushland.

“Wedderburn is very important and I have tried to keep our property as beautiful as possible and to reduce our impact on it,’’ he said.

“I love sitting down quietly and looking into the bush. Your eye explores passageways through the leaves, branches and trunks. You almost disappear into a vortex.

“I aim for a similar feeling of exploration in my paintings, looking in rather than looking at.’’

The exhibition depicts almost 30 years of Hawkes’ life and career and he urged art lovers and people of all ages to attend and view the show.

Looking In: A Survey of David Hawkes from 1989 to Now is on show at Campbelltown Arts Centre until Sunday, July 29. Picture: Robert Pozo

Hawkes said the exhibition highlighted many aspects of the idea of looking in.

“Looking In looks into my life and art works and art over a given period of time,’’ he said.

He said the idea of looking in also depicted the layering process of his paintings, an implied depth created by the paint in each of his images.

“Art is a really transformative experience which can change people’s lives for the better,’’ he said.

“The interesting thing about it is you own what you create. It gives a sense of identity.’’

Entry to the show is free. Details: 4645 4100.