Patrick Shirvington Artist's Statement

SOWING THE SEED

A favourite spot around Sydney is the sandstone country of the Upper Hawkesbury, on the Colo River. The natural forms are a delight and the actions of nature so beautiful, that I am immediately immersed in the loveliness and become a part of its being. One morning from the hill-top over the river I focus on the seed pod of the Banksia Serata with a backdrop of mist rising from the sunlit gully below and note how often we take in the panoramic and forget the minute and actual role of the seed.
While driving I notice the succession of native plants on the roadside and become aware of the resilience and rapid transformation of our damaged landscape and the forgiving personality of nature. As the day moves from dawn to dusk I am taken by the crimson colour of the fading light and the build up of cloud dividing and subdividing with the anticipation of rain as we greet the evening. The dance of the Banksia in the half light of sunset supports my belief that man, despite all his sorrow is uplifted in the presence of nature and if only in times of negative emotions one would look at this God made gift and realise its restorative power.

With man hell bent on destruction, materialism and answers coming from technology alone, I feel we should all stand back and allow nature to guide us through, as it is forgiving and resilient. Regeneration will take place in both our immediate environment and the greater universe.

Patrick Shirvington
September 2007