“Capturing the delicacy of the Sunshine Coast”
Captain Cook Creek, Bruny Island. Watercolour.
JAMES FEARNLEY has always captured the beauty of the Sunshine Coast with a clarity and delicacy which most people immediately associate with the allure of the region. He focuses on the natural aspects of the area, on the land and sea as it is, usually omitting any man-made structures, but often including distant figures, maybe fishing or strolling.
He has an undeniable talent with watercolour. He applies layers of wash to build up the painting and this gives a very special depth and glow, which is his signature style. He recreates a scene of tranquility, but to give life and movement, a change of emphasis is achieved through his technique which means that as ambient light changes, different areas become highlighted.
Moonlight on the Paroo.
James is still fascinated by the light and open space of Australia as a whole, but his life and heart have been settled in this region for over 35 years, and his passion for the area shows in his paintings of it. He is conveying not just a view, but a feeling of being relaxed and having time to enjoy what nature has provided. Given that everyone is time-poor and more stressed these days, a few moments of contemplation of a serene James Fearnley painting can genuinely add quality to life.
During the past few years particularly, James has also travelled into the outback. The variation of colour and light inspired a series of paintings reflecting a renewed awe for the grandeur of the Australian environment.
Calla Lillies. Watercolour over Dutch gold leaf.
During March James Fearnley’s paintings will be featured at ‘Art on Cairncross’ near Maleny. The collection will be a range of places and subjects which best showcase the artist’s skills, but which will also remind us all that art can be important in our daily lives as a source of relaxation and true enjoyment.
The works will be displayed from 2 -28 March and the gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. This will be of interest not only to James’ many followers, but also to all who appreciate finely crafted watercolours and who love the landscape.
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