Welcome 2020, Vintage 2020 and a new decade!
It is the start of a new decade and what better way than to start writing back on my blog.
I had a small hiatus from writing as it felt rather pretentious, ‘look’ at me, I’m so important. But I’m surprised to say, that I’ve had some positive feedback and people have asked me where it went. So, I’m back and ready to expound arty and sometimes philosophical aspects about life!
Like a good glass of wine with a lovely meal, art & philosophy are a beautiful marriage. At times you might find a random philosophical note where art meets spirituality or some other poignant aspect of life in my posts.
Hopefully I can inspire you, help you feel empowered & be part of a community.
On the topic of wine, Vintage 2020 is in full swing here in the valley.
It feels like only yesterday I was organising pruning and now I’m on the eve of harvest.
Fires, drought and huge bird problems have seen one of the most challenging vintages yet but I’m thrilled to say that we will harvest 2am in the morning. The baumé (sugar content) is reading 12 which is nearly ready for harvest.
Michael De Iuliis expertly crafts a vibrant rosé with the merlot. He has won a few awards for this delicious drop. Please check out the cellar door if you are in the hood!
I know many people in the Valley have not been as fortunate with smoke taint challenges and my heart goes out to them. It has indeed been a very difficult few months for the entire country.
Recent fires along the Brokenback Mountains, Broke/Fordwich Hunter Valley.
* Image found on the net.
Amid fire, drought and pestilence I have created an exciting body of work for my upcoming show at Art Systems Wickham this March.
It is inspired by my love of the Hunter Valley and speaks of our wonderful land which is full of contrasts and extremes. It is colourful, luscious and full of passion like our beloved Australian landscape.
All works have their origins en plein air where I have started painting them in the back paddock at home. Even the big ones. I really want them to feel authentic, the heat of the drought, intensity of a sunset and the texture of the bush.
Painting in the back paddock with my studio companion, Pixie. x
So, bring on 2020!! An exciting new decade and a wonderful Vintage.
Please sign up to my Newsletter to receive my latest news or check out recent work on my socials (@rebeccarathart).
I love to read messages so please feel free to comment or contact me.
Yours in art,
Bec xx
"Art is not the bread but the wine of life" - Jean Paul