Bushfire: Our community responds
David Larwill

The chaotic and unpredictable flames of the Ash Wednesday fires inspired the violent, gestural brushstrokes in this painting. Larwill’s spontaneous, expressive style is typical of his work of this period and of his reference to his immediate environment. The Ash Wednesday fires of 1983 and their aftermath motivated several young contemporary artists. Larwill’s reflection of the devastation focuses on human suffering and loss, and the terrifying force with which fire can envelop individuals and communities.

 

David LARWILL
born Australia 1956
Ash Wednesday 1983
oil on canvas
148.0 x 139.4 cm
Michell Endowment, 1984
National Gallery of Victoria