In fresh air

Mary Tonkin paints from direct observation in the landscape. She states: "I don't think it is necessary to paint en plein air to make meaningful paintings. So much of the work I love, current and historic, is or was made in the studio, from reference material, memory and sensation. However, in my own practice (for now) it seems vital." For Tonkin, standing in the bush each day and attending to the forms, light, and air is essential to her practice. The act of painting this experience requires attentive curiosity and a deep observation of how each form interlaces with those around it, revealed in particular light. Her work investigates the sensation of being present in nature.