Welcome 2020, Vintage 2020 and a new decade!
A New Decade, A Fresh Start
What better way to begin a new decade than by returning to my blog?
I took a bit of a hiatus—writing started to feel a little pretentious, as if I were saying, Look at me, I’m so important. But to my surprise, I’ve had people ask where my posts went, and I’ve received some lovely feedback. So, I’m back—ready to dive into all things art, creativity, and the occasional philosophical musing.
Like a good glass of wine paired with a beautiful meal, art and philosophy are a natural match. Every now and then, you might find a post exploring where art meets spirituality or reflecting on life’s deeper questions.
Above all, I hope to inspire, empower, and foster a sense of community.
Vintage 2020: A Season of Extremes
Speaking of wine, vintage 2020 is in full swing here in the Valley.
It feels like only yesterday I was organizing pruning, and now, harvest is just around the corner. Fires, drought, and relentless birds have made this one of the most challenging vintages yet. But despite it all, we’ll be harvesting at 2 a.m., with the baumé (sugar content) reading at 12—nearly perfect.
Michael De Iuliis, a masterful winemaker, crafts a vibrant rosé from our merlot, and his skill has earned him several awards. If you’re in the area, be sure to stop by the cellar door for a taste!
I know many in the Valley have faced difficult losses due to smoke taint, and my heart goes out to them. The recent fires along the Brokenback Mountains and Broke/Fordwich regions have been devastating—a reminder of just how tough this season has been for so many.
Recent fires along the Brokenback Mountains, Broke/Fordwich Hunter Valley.
* Image found on the net.
Painting Through Fire, Drought, and Change
Amidst these challenges, I’ve been working on an exciting new body of work for my upcoming show at Art Systems Wickham this March.
These paintings are inspired by my deep love for the Hunter Valley—a landscape of striking contrasts and extremes. It is wild, vibrant, and full of passion, much like Australia itself.
Every piece began en plein air, painted in the back paddock at home—even the large ones. I want these works to feel authentic—to capture the heat of the drought, the intensity of a sunset, and the raw texture of the bush.
Painting in the back paddock with my studio companion, Pixie. x
Here’s to 2020
A new decade, a new vintage, and a fresh creative chapter ahead.
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Here’s to a year of art, connection, and creativity.
Yours in art,
Bec
"Art is not the bread but the wine of life" - Jean Paul