Painterly Obsessions: Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre Artist in Residence Program May 2021
Shared Paint, Full Hearts
Being a painter can often feel like a solitary pursuit. Hours slip by in the studio—sometimes whole days—just me, the brushes, and some music in the background. I love that deep focus, and most of the time I thrive in it. But I’ll admit, it can get a bit lonely too.
So when I was invited to spend time creating alongside other artists, I jumped at the chance.
In 2021, Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre (MRAC) invited five artists—Travis De Vries, Mark Dober, Michelle Earl, Marie Mansfield and me—to take part in their Artist in Residency (AIR) program. In May of that year, Mark, Marie and I spent five incredible days immersed in the wild beauty of Wollemi National Park, NSW.
We painted, explored, shared meals, swapped stories, and spoke endlessly about art—everything from techniques and prizes to studio routines and materials. After long days out in the landscape, our little shared apartment became a cosy haven. The smell of oil paint and linseed hung in the air, and it felt instantly familiar. Each night we’d reflect on the day, sharing our work and conversations before tumbling into bed—tired, happy, and creatively full.
As part of the residency, we were lucky enough to visit seven diverse and spectacular landscapes within the Wollemi. We found ourselves in open grasslands (Inlet Road, Bulga), vast plains (Lookout Point via Appletree Flat), mountainous terrain (Mount Neilson and Widden Valley), bushland (Baerami Creek and Ruben’s Trail), and even pockets of lush rainforest (Terry’s Creek, Putty Road).
For someone like me who finds so much joy in discovering landscapes, it was absolute heaven. Each place offered its own palette, rhythm, and atmosphere—fuel for new work and fresh ways of seeing.
That time reminded me just how valuable it is to connect with fellow artists. To paint, talk, eat, and laugh together. To step out of the studio, and into a shared creative experience.
For me, en plein air is an obsession. It occupies my thoughts all the time. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by the beautiful Hunter Valley, which I endeavour never to take for granted. During long car trips on the highway, I find my mind constantly drifting to the inspiring natural colours and textures that surround me. I ruminate on how I can recreate these in my practice, often blending paints in my mind. I take mental notes and make plans to explore these mixtures at the next opportunity. This residency provided me with five days of non-stop inspiration, and I couldn’t have been happier!
I am eternally grateful for this opportunity and would like to acknowledge Elissa Emerson, Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre staff, Muswellbrook Council, Faye Neilson, Singleton Art and Cultural Centre, Singleton Council, and Shane Forty from National Parks for this truly unique and precious experience.
‘Viewpoints: Wollemi National Park’ Exhibition
Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre and Singleton Art and Cultural Centre
May 13 – July 3, 2022
Enquiries: MRAC (02) 6549 3800 / artcentre@muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au
Yours in art,
Bec xoxo
