People's Choice Voting: Queensland Regional Art Awards 2020
17aug(aug 17)9:00 am14sep(sep 14)5:00 pm
Event Details
Place your vote to help your favourite Queensland Regional Art Awards 2020 entry win a People’s Choice Award. Selected artists will also be in the running to be included in the Decadence touring exhibition, touring across Queensland 2020 – 2022.
People’s Choice Award Prizes
Adults: $1,250 cash, non acquisitive, thanks to TAFE Queensland
Youth (aged 17 – 25 years): $750, cash, non acquisitive, thanks to TAFE Queensland
Voting Process
You may vote once for an Adult Category artwork, and once for a Youth Category artwork.
- Click on the individual images below to view an artwork, read the artist statement, and reveal their voting link.
- To vote you must fill out the form and provide your real name and email address for confirmation.
- A confirmation email will be sent to your nominated email address to confirm your vote. You will need to click ‘confirm vote’ to validate and confirm your submission. If you do not confirm your vote through this email your vote will not be valid.
In 2020 the Queensland Regional Art Awards (QRAA) celebrates 10 years, a decade of rewarding and celebrating Queensland regional arts and the wealth of creativity and imagination thriving in the regions.
The QRAA is an annual visual arts prize and exhibition for established and emerging artists living in regional and remote Queensland. The program aims to provide a platform for further professional development. The Queensland Regional Art Awards is open to all Queensland artists living outside of the Brisbane City Council area.
Theme: Decadence
Decadence may invite notions of luxury and self-indulgence. It may evoke ideas of wanton excess or wastefulness, perhaps with a casual or deliberate disregard of consequence. Dependent on circumstance, personal definitions of decadence can shift quite suddenly.
Artists are encouraged to explore the complex notion of decadence within their own communities and households across Queensland – both in times of shortage, and in times of plenty.
Adult Category – Click on individual images to view and vote
Decadence – a story of Cultural Decline (Vote for this Artwork)
Kym Tabulo, 2020
Artist Location: Mooloolah Valley
Medium: Digital print on canvas
Dimensions: 84.1 x 59.4 x 3 cm
Artist Statement:
Why a comics cover? I hope to motivate you to think about the real meaning of decadence and to consider your personal experiences and cultural stories regarding this theme. My thoughts are portrayed in this image. This energetic graphic artwork combines my fascination with abstract art and vibrant comics. To do this, I work in layers and begin with my original abstract paintings, drawings and photographs, which I scan and digitally combine. There are over thirty layers in this work. Once I am happy with the composition, I flatten the image into one layer and have it expertly printed onto the canvas with an archival quality finish. This 21st Century process that combines traditional and digital mediums is fascinating and provides me with endless possibilities.
Photographer: Kym Tabulo
Decay (Vote for this Artwork)
Katherine Civil, 2020
Artist Location: Toowoomba
Medium: Acrylic on canvas
Dimensions: 45 x 60 x 4 cm
Artist Statement:
This work uses influences of Pop Art and the drips of Helen Frankenthaler. The painting is of random melting gelati or broken hearts. The random nature of the repeated symbols is representative of chaos and fragmentation of these symbols. Using colours that clash and of similar chroma they juxtapose each other with a hint of white to soften. The decaying of morals in a painted format, that is decadence.
Photographer: Katherine Civil
High Tea (Vote for this Artwork)
Second Image of Artwork
Barbara Stephenson, 2020
Artist Location: Toowoomba
Medium: Textiles
Dimensions: 25 x 50 x 52 cm
Artist Statement:
Nothing says decadent pleasure and fun quite like the timeless ritual of a high tea. We frock up elegantly and sip champagne. Time stands still and food is elevated to an art form. Centuries ago, the ingredients of tea, coffee, chocolate, sugar and spice brought by explorers and traders from distant exotic lands to pique jaded palates. Sumptuary laws ensured these luxuries remained the decadent pleasure of the rich and influential. Today they have become an addictive everyday pleasure and their increased production is detrimental to the natural habitats of rainforests, reefs.
I have wrapped and twisted strips of discarded blankets and clothing until the soft yielding fabric takes on solid dense forms. Reminiscent perhaps of a childhood dolls’ tea party. Are they food or flowers? Cake or coral? The sugary pastel colour palette is dominated by white, reflecting on the dying beauty of bleaching coral.
Another slice of cake anyone?
Photographer: Allan Lisle
The Red Carpet (Vote for this Artwork)
Vivienne Bryant, 2020
Artist Location: Nambour
Medium: Acrylic
Dimensions: 30 x 90 x 3 cm
Artist Statement:
2020 has been a year like no other. We have all had to isolate to prevent the spread of the virus. Our homes have become our world.
The Arts have gone into hibernation. I have spent most of my time in old paint splattered clothes, with a hair style that would look better on an Old English Sheepdog. Each night the TV shows endless re-runs of old programs. Dressing up and going out to socialize is no longer an option. The streets in our area are almost empty.
One day, when a vaccine is discovered, life will change. The Arts will start again. Exhibitions, Shows, Movies, and Festivals will begin. We will see the over the top excesses. All the Glitter, Glamour and Gathering of the Red Carpet events will return once more.
Photographer: Tony Bryant
Downtown Perspective (Vote for this Artwork)
Miriam Innes, 2020
Artist Location: Pie Creek
Medium: Charcoal on paper
Dimensions: 56 x 76 x 0 cm
Artist Statement:
Distinguished as a decadence, to travel can be interrupted as a luxury. With sufficient funds in your back pocket to board a plane, fly across times zones, to see and experience another place, another culture. Travelling to familiar places, to gloat your experience through stories and images of sleepless club nights and daytime selfies before famous monuments on your social channels. Iconic places, cities like New York whose images are so known to us all that we can feel a part of the experience whether visited or not. What if your longed for ‘life-time’ experience of the city that never sleeps is realised as a city in a pandemic slumber, devoid of the very heart it boasts, a city preparing to shut down, whose people are at the mercy of fear and illness, your journey and life time opportunity crumbles before you, into isolation, helplessness and a bitter decadent memory.
Photographer: Miriam Innes
Page 354 (Vote for this Artwork)
Kristen Flynn, 2020
Artist Location: Chinchilla
Medium: Giclee print on canson rag
Dimensions: 80 x 50.8 x 0.2 cm
Artist Statement:
Baroque paintings are complexly excessive. They are visually decadent as they indulge in movement, colour and drama. In my self-portrait ‘Page 354′, I have layered part of Peter Paul Rubens’ Baroque painting ‘Education of Maria’ over my face to create numerous and complex layers of meaning. Rubens’ image was taken from an art book I had laying on my kitchen table; it prompted me to think about how many ‘snapshots’ of female identity where living in my house. Compositionally, Queen Marie de’ Medici is central to my face, with two of her three Graces which symbolise fertility and beauty, either side. I have constructed an expression of power in the face of art’s troublesome history of the female nude, and history’s obsession with females beauty and ability to reproduce. My skin becomes a statement of specious visual decadence.
Photographer: Kristen Flynn
‘Down Down’: Are Good Things Happening (Vote for this Artwork)
Sandra Ross, 2020
Artist Location: Gympie
Medium: Mixed Media
Dimensions: 83 x 59 x 2 cm
Artist Statement:
Over 25,000 products sit on the shelves of Coles stores every day waiting for us to choose and purchase. This astonishing realisation motivated me to draw attention to the incredible excess and indulgence humans display in something considered a necessity.
Drawing upon reoccurring themes of mountainous forms in my artwork, I have used ink and watercolour on paper to paint an organic form sitting in a nest-like tangle of dead clear-felled forest. One almost lifeless tree clings precariously to the edge as a metaphor for the destruction of our environment in order to satisfy greedy desires.
Upon closer view it becomes surprising to find tiny subtle text following the contours of the organic form. Written are the names of a mere 5% of the products, further emphasising how decadent our options have become in the choices of flavour, type, colour, size and brand.
Are good things happening…
Photographer: Jazmyn Bowman
Casuistry Extreme
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Yanni Van Zijl, 2020
Artist Location: Sunshine Beach
Medium: Video
Dimensions: Variable
Artist Statement:
Casuistry – the resolving of moral problems by the application of theoretical rules to particular instances.
Extreme – from drought to the depths of despair.
Casuistry Extreme is a film that creates an engagement about humans relationship between our actions and the events that are the consequences.
“Wanton excess or wastefulness. Perhaps casual or deliberate disregard of consequence.”This film is about mankind’s accountability for the environment.
In the latest Intergovernmental Panel on climate change we were warned that we have 12 years to act in order to limit global warming to no more than 1.5 degrees.
In Australia, fire, flood, and drought are more prevalent than ever before.
We are currently in a climate emergency, Australia has just experienced nine out of ten of the highest temperatures since 2005.
Yanni has used herself as the canvas on which to represent the extremes of landscape and our impact on the environment.
Photographer: Yanni Van Zijl
I seem more aware of subtleties in my space.
Melissa Spratt, 2020
Artist Location: Gold Coast
Medium: Finger-knitted wool on water resistant backing.
Dimensions: 60 x 85 x 1 cm
Artist Statement:
This artwork was created as an expression and explanation of what it is to identify as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). In this context, decadence relates to the way in which a HSP manages their external and internal stimuli. Where they are cautious not to over indulge in decadent activities. Due to having a sensitive nervous system, a HSP is aware of subtleties in their surroundings, and is more easily overwhelmed when in a highly stimulating environment. This piece is the beginning of a larger project and speaks to the theme of Decadence in a way that encompasses our growing sensitivities in a world full of overstimulation and change.
Photographer: Melissa Spratt
Pause
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Renee Yates, 2019
Artist Location: East Ipswich
Medium: Animation
Dimensions: Variable cm
Artist Statement:
Pause (2019) reflects the decadent nature of seeking stillness in a society that so often venerates the busy. A moving-image streetscape, the work invites viewers to “take a pause” and explore the intricacies of the world that are often missed in the hustle and bustle of modern life. Made in a pre-COVID world, the image’s audio-visual elements, comprising of field recordings and subtle animation of clouds, planes, birds, chimney smoke, flickering lights and falling jacaranda blooms, pull the viewers into the decadence of standing still in a suburban world. On process: a series of hand cut painted paper collages, photographs, and pastel and charcoal strokes were digitised and arranged then animated then brought to life with a field recording of Queensland suburbia.
Photographer: Renee Yates
Daydreaming of lotuses
Ming How Chan, 2020
Artist Location: Rockhampton
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 70 x 95 x 2 cm
Artist Statement:
Coming from an academic tradition of oil painting from life, my current practice focuses on moments of silence that people experience. The moment you begin to drift into a daydream and reality begins to dissolve.
These moments feel harder to come by in our day and age, and taking time for oneself to just sit and be, becomes something indulgent and decadent, almost selfish.
The idea to take a bath long enough to daydream is a luxury many take for granted and many hardly consider.
Photographer: Ming How Chan
Two Pair too Many (Vote for this Artwork)
Joolie Gibbs, 2020
Artist Location: Gympie
Medium: Handmade inks (bunya, Indonesian spinach, lichen) on paper
Dimensions: 32.5 x 64.5 x 0 cm
Artist Statement:
At 18 I had two pairs of shoes – thongs and sandshoes. Now I have over 40! I am reflecting on these two pairs, one made in India, the other in Thailand before I toss them out. My purchase of these shoes has added to the $250 billion footwear industry. An industry responsible for one-fifth of the environmental impacts generated by the apparel industry. The debate of who has the larger footprint (pun intended), leather or viscose or plastic, as they all lead to deforestation in critical systems, not to mention the labour violations in a not too transparent industry. Do we question where they come from or how they were produced? My decadence has caught me out. Yes, I definitely have more than two pairs of shoes too many.
Photographer: Joolie Gibbs
A-tishoo Toilet Tissue Can You Spare A Square (Vote for this Artwork)
Joan Stratton, 2020
Artist Location: Weipa
Medium: Digital Illustration
Dimensions: 120 x 120 x 25 cm
Artist Statement:
Decadence; our over indulgence, our want for everything and anything – a social commentary artwork of a tattooed woman, her hair up in a bun, she is wearing golden toilet paper earrings as she is contemplating her unwise decisions of days past. Not of hoarding or whether she purchased too much toilet paper (stacked in the background), she worries about the rushed home done dragon tattoo on her forearm, was it worth the pain and suffering, will she be able to show it to her friends when she finally sees them? She also has symbolic tattoos on her other arm for protection the Celtic Shield Knot symbol and the words she currently lives by.
Photographer: Joan Stratton
Privileged Irony (Vote for this Artwork)
John Ashall, 2020
Artist Location: Townsville
Medium: Oil on board
Dimensions: 60 x 75 x 0.4 cm
Artist Statement:
The Merriam – Webster dictionary defines decadence as “the process of becoming decadent” or “a period of decline.”
Consequently, the “process of becoming decadent” is marked by decay or decline within an increasingly decadent society.
I felt the standard definition of “moral or cultural decline as characterised by excessive indulgence in pleasure or luxury” to be somewhat pedestrian and dependent on one’s personal circumstances.
My work embraces the concept that the abundance we enjoy in our bountiful country can often desensitise us to desperate situations existing elsewhere.
I found inspiration in a quote from the novelist Thomas Pynchon whose works combine black humour and fantasy to depict human alienation in the chaos of modern society.
“To have humanism we must first be convinced of our humanity. As we move further into decadence this becomes more difficult.” Thomas Pynchon
Photographer: John Ashall
In the dark of night (Vote for this Artwork)
Tarja Ahokas, 2020
Artist Location: Ninderry
Medium: Mixed media assemblage
Dimensions: 65 x 108 x 5 cm
Artist Statement:
In the dark of night
Everything
Everything
Looses its shape
And disappears
Decadence of darkness
Are we over indulging
In this black night
Can’t we see
The light at the
End of the tunnel?
Photographer: Tarja Ahokas
The Blue Lion Spectacle (Vote for this Artwork)
Anitha Menon, 2020
Artist Location: Rockhampton
Medium: Oil and paper on canvas
Dimensions: 100 x 75 x 3 cm
Artist Statement:
Even the placid complacency of a regional home is not beyond the enchanting avatars of a make-believe world of consumerism. The scramble over some rare Lion King Ooshies like Blue Mufasa and Orange Simba last year had its ripple effect in Queensland too. Today, the market is king and consumer its slave. Too many offers, options and many dreams to sell – these aspects have led to market dominance on daily lives to the extent that consumer entitlement, judgement and wastage have become commonplace and a way of life in societies, big or small.
Decadence is chaos of thoughts and actions in a market-driven world… a state of trance, pleasure and carelessness…. decay starting from the roots…over influence of social media… a lack of care for the environment. It happens gradually… merging the virtual and customised world with the real, for kids and adults alike, and the King watches on.
Photographer: Anitha Menon
The Gift – An Abundance of Time (Vote for this Artwork)
Gail Meyer, 2020
Artist Location: North Rockhampton
Medium: Acrylic on canvas
Dimensions: 93 x 61 x 3 cm
Artist Statement:
During COVID-19 lockdown times, I received a gift of an artfully beautiful coffee cup and spoon set within a decorative gold box. I decided to enjoy using this cup. Usually, I would have displayed the delicate coffee set to just look at and admire, but instead, I took the luxury of the gift and used it daily.
Sitting on my back deck and gazing out over the surrounding vista, I gave to myself an excessive amount of every morning to relax, drink coffee, eat chocolate, cherry and strawberry treats from a stacked servery plate.
Also with the coffee and chocolate at hand, I indulged in drawing a display of delicately withering sunflowers, which as the days passed, became even more artistically beautiful in their decaying shapes.
Such self indulgence with the luxury of time, tastes and creative pursuits – pure decadence for oneself.
Photographer: Gail Meyer
These Are The Days of the Endless Dancing (Vote for this Artwork)
Second Image of Artwork
Margo Miranda, 2020
Artist Location: Castaways Beach
Medium: Textile and found objects
Dimensions: 11 x 18 x 5 cm
Artist Statement:
My artwork – a stitched and embroidered textile book – makes simple comment on decadence and its place in the human condition. Man has always needed adornment for power, pleasure and a love of beauty. Today we see apparel industry plunder the resources of the planet for cheap throw-away fashion – all destined for landfill. We know it’s wrong but we can’t stop participating in this very decadent industry.
My art practice is informed by the duality in life. The book’s centerpiece is a tribute to the opposite of decadence – thrift, frugality and the conserving of resources. I find the darning of this vintage textile moving; with a very tender beauty.
The stitched lyrics from Van Morrison’s “These are the days” give context to ideas around decadence and its consequences. While decadence is universal, Queensland is referenced in the colour Maroon and it’s latin motto – “audax at fidelis” – bold but faithful.
Photographer: Sarah Smith
societatem ab intus putrescit (Vote for this Artwork)
Cara-Ann Simpson, 2020
Artist Location: Toogoom
Medium: Pigment print on Ilford gold fibre gloss rag
Dimensions: 76 x 76 x 0 cm
Artist Statement:
societatem ab intus putrescit (society rots from the inside) is from Furari Flores (Stealing Flowers) – a series of vanitas artworks exploring ephemerality and societal decay.
This series acts as a nexus between commentary on personal challenges and an outward interpretation of global news. They are an ironic reminder of the innate beauty found simultaneously in decadence and decay.
A nod to the Victorian symbol of jealousy and momento mori post-mortem photography, ?societatem ab intus putrescit? reflects our society and the inherent decadence and selfishness of individual acts leading to rot and decay. I am not innocent, and have often chosen the convenient, accessible or affordable option, rather than review my daily choices to reflect my ethical beliefs.
This work also symbolises my health – that visually I often appear vibrant, while my inner workings continue to degenerate as my neurological illness wreaks unseen havoc. My work often incorporates spectrographs (visual analysis of soundwaves), and this one is found sparkling in the lower petals – imperfectly perfect.
Photographer: Cara-Ann Simpson
Dawn of the dog {2} (Vote for this Artwork)
Paul Reynolds, 2020
Artist Location: Cooroy
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 90 x 120 x 20 cm
Artist Statement:
Every morning they come down from their gated communities and waterfront fortresses.
To sip lattes and frappes served by the lower 98 per cent. After lives in in the corporate banking and political worlds ,signing off on redundancies, asset stripping, acquiring the life savings of others and robbing asbestos victims.
They walk their pampered pooches carefully picking up their faeces. In a different but at the same time disturbingly similar to their past lives.
The style gives a nod to saucy british postcards of the 60s, while the title to G.A Romero’s cult zombie classic ‘Dawn of the dead’ While contemplating the work in relevance to the topic ‘Decadence.’ I thought it replete with metaphors, symbolism and more anologies than you could throw a stick for.
Photographer: Paul Reynolds
Mad Max Dollhouse (Vote for this Artwork)
Julie Purcell, 2019
Artist Location: Kippa-Ring
Medium: Oil on cupboard doors
Dimensions: 41.5 x 90 x 0.5 cm
Artist Statement:
Visiting our property at Beebo is like stepping into a dystopian future with no mainstream power or utilities. Through the 1980s my Grandfather lived there in an almost pre-modern way. Over the years small improvements were made to create a more comfortable space with a few mod cons. After Grandad’s passing my family inherited the property and cottage and we added more homely touches. Dad installed a hot water system making washing up a lot easier and we now use a gas powered stove and solar powered refrigerator. The cottage provides a man made space of controlled comfort within a beautiful yet impersonal natural bush setting. This ascetic space reminds me that simple developments grant so much convenience and pleasure. Light, refrigeration and clean running water are essential – all else, including the box of home brew depicted, is vanity!
Photographer: Julie Purcell
Black Tree Caligraphy II (Vote for this Artwork)
Second Image of Artwork
Rose Rigley, 2020
Artist Location: Whitfield
Medium: Mixed media (monoprint, acrylic paint, hand stitching, machine stitching, glue) on board
Dimensions: 110 x 86 x 5 cm
Artist Statement:
When considering the theme DECADENCE, I couldn’t navigate past the idea of self-indulgence and for me, (like many), that involves the luxury of time. Time allows an artwork to evolve, with no specific purpose other than the sheer joy of conceptualizing, discovering, and finally creating. Such a creation is enabled with methods that are often repetitive and occasionally tedious but permits the artist the luxury of pondering thoughts and long-drawn-out pauses.
In “Black Tree Calligraphy II”, the blackened husks of the tree bodies become memory’s text, creating their own language above the decadent orange and matt black surrounds. By placing the tree ‘words’ over this landscape, I could consider the space in between. It is this place – where shadows form, where silent pauses rest and where memories linger – that I am seeking to understand.
In today’s busy-ness, what an extravagance to be able to do so!
Photographer: Michael Marzik
Lantana Hills no. 1 (Vote for this Artwork)
Jenny Neubecker, 2020
Artist Location: Waterloo
Medium: Pastel, graphite and collage on canvas
Dimensions: 95 x 62 x 0 cm
Artist Statement:
Queensland’s relentless, hot, dry summers strip the life out of the landscape. Soft pastures and rolling hills wisely surrender to the harsh conditions of summer. For month after month the bleached landscape waits patiently and uncomfortably for that first summer rain.
When it finally comes grasses, that seem to be barely clinging to life, burst vigorously into new growth and the landscape erupts into masses of vivid greens. Soon after, other plant species emerge prolifically to join the grasses and the landscape is brushed with swathes of the rich, decadent purples and mauves of creeping lantana. Every living thing seems to rush frantically to grow, flower and seed then bask in some short-lived decadence knowing, and waiting for, the cycle of dry and wet that will inevitably follow.
Photographer: Jenny Neubecker
King Of the Toilet Rolls and His Golden Bowl (Vote for this Artwork)
Second Image of Artwork
Kerry Sanders, 2020
Artist Location:
Medium: Ceramic, gold leaf, wood and paper
Dimensions: 50 x 40 x 40 cm
Artist Statement:
I have been inspired by the community response during the COVID-19 Pandemic and used this to guide my work to express ‘Decadence.’ I want to make a statement on the ‘first-world problems,’ that we live with and often refer to in Australia. Specifically, I was amazed at people’s reaction to buying up toilet paper ultimately creating a shortage. Showing the toilet roll as a decadent, but precious household item seems appropriate. The Toilet Roll became so rare and sort after in resent months, it rose to a Regal status. I used Gold Leaf on the crown and ceramic bowl to create a whimsical sculpture relating to community and its obsession with access to toilet paper and the decadent roll it played. Of course, the toilet has often also been referred to as a ‘throne’ and it’s history as a ceramic bowl is well known!
Photographer: Kerry Sanders
They ate all the flowers (Vote for this Artwork)
Veronika Zeil, 2020
Artist Location: Rockhampton
Medium: photograph on aluminium
Dimensions: 90 x 90 x 2 cm
Artist Statement:
“They ate all the flowers” hints at longing for beauty and pleasure, but also portrays self-indulgence at the expense of nature.
Red Lips and flowers -age old symbols for beauty and passion are juxtaposed in a collage of neon-coloured papers, hand-painted perfect lips and teeth and filled to the brink with native flora from the Queensland bush. Faceless mouths emphasize insatiable hunger and decadent perfection. We savour short-lived gratification, act on desires and indulge with little empathy for other living beings.
The tragic consequence of such indulgence is that it does not sustain passion, and whole ecosystems are decimated for our short-term gain. Our longing for more each day – how much longer can that be sustained?
We may live in a land of plenty but times of distress over natural disasters such as bushfires, floods or drought, bring home notions of what life looks like in times of shortage.
Photographer: Veronika Zeil
The Dance of Decay (Vote for this Artwork)
Kaylie Jenkins, 2020
Artist Location: Danbulla
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Dimensions: 40.5 x 50.5 x 3.5 cm
Artist Statement:
A detournement of Thomas Couture’s 1847 masterpiece “Romans of the Decadence?”
Amidst rumours of an ancient race of elitist lizard people living among the higher echelons of human society, corrupting our governing systems. The veil is lifted.
Indulgence is born of corruption. An ‘Evil’ corruption.
Consider a necessary evil, creating balance for optimum experience and growth.
Presenting the challenge, not of resisting temptation but of moderating it. Without challenge innovation is limited. However, complete abstinence, as the opposing extreme of indulgence, is equally flawed in limiting potential and experiential growth. True self-discipline lies in the constant negotiation of individual beliefs, never lazily locking anything in, but rather being present in the decisions we make at every opportunity, acknowledging the moments that shape our existence.
The decadent cephalopod knows what I’m talking about.
Photographer: Kaylie Jenkins
Mooloolaba Icecream Decadence (Vote for this Artwork)
Sharon Hamill, 2020
Artist Location: Buderim
Medium: Acrylic on canvas
Dimensions: 91.4 x 60.9 x 3.5 cm
Artist Statement:
A mellow afternoon playing at a most perfect Mooloolaba beach, with a warm breeze blowing and eating a three serving ice cream cone. My aim with this painting was to evoke the feeling of simple indulgence and decadence that we have sometimes come to accept living on the Sunshine coast. The main focus is the semi abstract child with their dog in the foreground with a way too big ice cream that is starting to melt and is going, going to slip off. The media is acrylic with some areas smooth and other areas that I want to draw more attention worked to be thickly textured with obvious brush strokes. I try to make us remember good memories such as the simple fun and indulgence of the child dreamily licking that ice cream cone without a trouble in the world, until it falls off!
Photographer: Sharon Hamill
TWO UP Come in Spinner (Vote for this Artwork)
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Warren (Buck) Richardson, 2020
Artist Location: Kuranda
Medium: Digital Art Video
Dimensions: Variable
Artist Statement:
Captivated by their beauty, I have photographed a ‘collection’ of over 1500 species of moths, spending countless hours staring at my screen as I magnify and move their patterns and colours around in my digital art. Decadence put me in mind of gamblers who can similarly get hooked by the colours and movement on their pokies screens. But decadence and beauty combine in a paradox – whether it’s roulette wheels or the roll of the dice on casino gaming tables, the colours, sounds and lights are exciting. Betting is part of our culture. Even governments are dependent on the revenue. From the ANZAC tradition of TWO UP Come in Spinner, to the gee-gees at the Melbourne Cup or even the stock market, most Australians have a wager on something. But for some gamblers such mesmerising patterns become a decadent addiction, a vice, leaving the punter in a spin, their money burnt.
Photographer: Warren (Buck) Richardson
Natural Selection (Vote for this Artwork)
Elizabeth Graetz, 2020
Artist Location: Dalby
Medium: Fabric collage and thread painting
Dimensions: 51 x 61 x 5 cm
Artist Statement:
Decadently attired in his lustrous feathers, the male Satin Bower bird lavishly adorns his bower to attract his fastidious and notoriously exacting mate. His display, lovingly and painstakingly staged, is filled with more and more treasures not normally found in nature.
The decadence of exhibitionism, territorialism and pure ostentation found in nature is mirrored by the ever increasing and encroaching decadence and waste created by humans, often to the detriment of the creatures who share our planet.
Although the bottle-caps, plastic rings, straws, spoons and other thoughtlessly discarded items are treated as the Bower bird’s treasures, they will ultimately bring about his and the planet’s destruction. Natural selection? Or the repercussions of our human decadence?
Photographer: Elizabeth Graetz
I am here (Vote for this Artwork)
Gayle Fleming, 2020
Artist Location: Goodna
Medium: Acrylic on paper
Dimensions: 29.7 x 21 x 0 cm
Artist Statement:
I am a late bloomer in the world of visual art. I am a self taught painter. I find with every piece a huge learning experience, and I am eager to develop my work. Acrylic, ink, pencil and watercolour is the medium I use. Line, shape, form and blending colours create my light free flowing style. Margaret Olley is one of my favourite artists as she reflected an influencers lifestyle that I feel I can connect with. My art depicts a vibracy in plant form and flora. Connecting with nature is my desire, as it is good medicine for my soul.
For this piece, I have changed my subject and technique to produce a more abstract illusion with a message that’s thought provoking and gripping for the viewer. Our personal connections between family and friends is what gives our life meaning. Although our indulgence and obsession with screens makes us all disconnected.
Photographer: Gayle Fleming
I Need a Home (Vote for this Artwork)
Pamela Finlay, 2020
Artist Location: Bowen
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Dimensions: 40.5 x 30 x 3.5 cm
Artist Statement:
When I was thinking of the word “Decadence” my mind immediately went to the recent increase of the abandonment of animals that has been happening in our town over the past few months. This moral disregard for animals has got to stop. Animal rescues help foster the change in animals lives. They are impassioned people wanting to help in their community, saving innocent lives and caring for animals in need. We can all make a difference in our communities to raise an awareness and help to right the wrongs, by giving and sharing love and compassion for the innocent little animals through these stressful times. They deserve the opportunity to survive and thrive.
Photographer: Pamela Finlay
Decadent Donald (Vote for this Artwork)
Sharon Kirk, 2020
Artist Location: Barmaryee
Medium: Acrylic on canvas
Dimensions: 61 x 90.5 x 4 cm
Artist Statement:
When COVID-19 became a pandemic in early 2020 and we were all directed to stay home and isolate as much as we could, we had time to indulge in a sometimes gruesome fascination with ongoing television reports of how the pandemic was playing out around the world. This decadent self indulgence continued as I watched intently the spread of coronavirus from China to Europe then the rest of the world and the human toll escalated. Becoming a couch potato was a wanton and excessive waste of time and highly addictive.
The media’s coverage of the President of the United States of America’s response to this public health issue became increasingly unbelievable to me. President Trump appeared a narcissist with total disregard to the consequences of his seemingly decadent ideology that coronavirus could potentially be prevented by injections of bleach, and that, contrary to health advice, taking hydrochoroquine would help prevent contracting the virus.
My work is a response to this self indulgent notion by President Donald Trump which had ?invaded? my personal space as well as becoming a source of continued discussion within my ‘cyber’ community.
Photographer: Sharon Kirk
Rise (Vote for this Artwork)
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Amber Countryman, 2020
Artist Location: Rockhampton
Medium: Fine black leather, cast sterling silver.
Dimensions: 4 x 26 x 23 cm
Artist Statement:
In this artwork I am acknowledging the situations I have let myself fall into simply by not standing my ground. I have formed a habit of keeping others happy, disregarding my own wellbeing and begging for approval. While I continue to build strength and know myself better, I am aware that habits are hard to break and I need to firm up personal boundaries. My solution is this stylish knee attire, using the fear of physical self-harm to prevent the inevitable emotional self-harm, made with these lavish materials to remind myself that I am worth it, that I am not here to play the submissive role any longer, I deserve better.
Photographer: Amber Countryman
Lost at the Asylum (Vote for this Artwork)
Kate Douglas, 2020
Artist Location: Moores Pocket
Medium: Acrylic on canvas
Dimensions: 61 x 51 x 3.5 cm
Artist Statement:
This is the old Ipswich Hospital for the Insane. It stands abandoned and boarded up on the grounds of what is now the University of Southern Queensland campus.
I have always been interested and disturbed by this building, with its imposing architecture and ominous feel. Recently, watching the ABC news on Anzac Day this year, I learnt about a local veteran, Matt Rennie OAM, who was painstakingly researching and identifying 72 World War 1 soldiers buried in unmarked graves at the nearby Ipswich General Cemetery. They had all died in this asylum, committed for being “vagrant alcoholics, damaged by the horrors of war” or having “shell shock and battle fatigue.” He found some of them had held military medals for heroic actions.
The Oxford Dictionary defines decadence as “moral or cultural decline especially after a peak of culmination or achievement.” This was the historical fate of those suffering moral decay.
Photographer: Kate Douglas
Watched (Vote for this Artwork)
Karen Wiz Smith, 2020
Artist Location: Gold Coast
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Dimensions: 76 x 76 x 4 cm
Artist Statement:
A piece highlighting an ecological, voyeuristic community mindset.
Photographer: Karen Wiz Smith
These Are A Few Of My Favourite Things
Grant Quinn, 2020
Artist Location: Bundamba
Medium: Digital photograph
Dimensions: 73 x 58 x 1 cm
Artist Statement:
With a passion for collecting, my decadent obsession started many years ago after being gifted a Wedgwood Gravy Boat by my Grandmother. I still have that gravy boat, sitting front and centre in my dining room display cabinet, but little was I to know that this simple gravy boat would lead to a life time of becoming a ‘mad collector’, driving miles in the search for that next bargain. Before I knew it, I became one of the torch light brigade bargain hunters, scouring markets, fairs and garage sales well before the sun came up. Seeking out that elusive piece to add to my already overflowing abundant decadent obsession.
Photographer: Grant Quinn
ATYB.1 (Vote for this Artwork)
Second Image of Artwork
Petalia Humphreys, 2020
Artist Location: Peregian Beach
Medium: Acrylic on plywood
Dimensions: 60 x 60 x 10 cm
Artist Statement:
The colours of yellow and green were largely associated with the Decadent movement, the artistic and literary movement of the late 19th century. These colours feature in works of the era, including Ramon Casas’ work, whose “Decadent Young Woman (After the Dance)” 1899 holds a copy of “The Yellow Book”, a popular British periodical of the decadent “Yellow Nineties. This use of yellow and green, often partnered with greys or blacks informs my work ATYB.1. Concerned with the architecture of forms upon the painted surface, ATYB.1 is a three-dimensional painting that invites the viewer to actively participate in considering the work from multiple perspectives in the gallery space, in turn revealing visual playful shifts and transmutations.
Photographer: Petalia Humphreys
Nutjobs (Vote for this Artwork)
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Karen Benjamin, 2020
Artist Location: Redland
Medium: Acrylic on gumnuts
Dimensions: 11 x 50 x 28 cm
Artist Statement:
The rate of suicide is higher in regional and remote areas of Queensland. The area that I live in (Metro South) has recorded 443 suicides or suspected suicides for the 2016-2018 period. Forty nine point two percent (49.2%) of these suicides have been people who showed no previous mental health issues (According to the Queensland 2019 Annual Suicide Report).
The gumnut gnomes I have used represent 74 lives lost in a 12 month period who showed no signs of previous mental health issues.
One of the dictionary descriptions describes decadence as a “state of low standards in society, social decay.” Perhaps a kinder society, one that doesn’t have to wear the stigma that is associated with mental illness and more support for regional areas could help save lives.
Photographer: Karen Benjamin
Gentleman’s Club on 8th Avenue (Vote for this Artwork)
Uli Liessmann, 2020
Artist Location: Home Hill
Medium: Oil on paper
Dimensions: 70 x 60 x 2 cm
Artist Statement:
Dulcie dream had come true and now she was proud to be able to tread the cat walk in the luxurious Men’s Club on 8th Avenue. With an ever-self-indulging audience with scant concern to the pandemic and social distancing.
Photographer: Uli Liessmann
Utopian Dream (Vote for this Artwork)
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Pamela Kusabs, 2020
Artist Location: Whitfield
Medium: Acrylic on paper mache, wire
Dimensions: 100 x 8 x 6 cm
Artist Statement:
To me, decadence is a symptom of a culture out of balance. Civilisations can fall, even those with the highest ideals. Our current collective cultural viewpoints are skewed, we commodify, classify, nullify, vilify. “Utopian Dream” is a call for a softer, kinder world.
The heart shaped motifs are my interpretation of the natural decadence of colour visible to the human eye. We look and see resplendent natural phenomenons, each glittery, and showy, not mere baubles. Regardless of our gender, age, postcode, we can all experience and the savour the sight of a sunset, flowering plants, the colours of the Queensland bush and soil.
Inwardly, my motifs represent the gamut of human emotions. In the most recent times, an outpouring of generosity has taken place in communities, across our great state and nation. The motif at the mid-point, the heart centre, is open, I hope this represents our future that is to come.
Photographer: Michael Marzik
Paper Sky (Vote for this Artwork)
Andrea Baumert Howard, 2020
Artist Location: Eastern Heights
Medium: Recycled office paper
Dimensions: 70 x 60 x 0.29 cm
Artist Statement:
This year has been difficult, the world feels like it is falling apart. There have been many challenges put before us. Personally, I struggled with anxiety for several months. I had lost my motivation to create.
Small acts of self-love and reflection are a way of finding joy and not be tempted to fall into melancholy.
If you look at it the right way, something as simple and humble as taking the time to watch clouds roll by can be decadent. Finding daily decadence is an exercise in the practice of gratitude that is not only reserved for the elite.
Photographer: Andrea Baumert Howard
Paradise Lost (Vote for this Artwork)
Amanda Dickson, 2020
Artist Location: Maroochy River
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 76 x 101 x 4 cm
Artist Statement:
The word ‘decadence’ probably won’t be associated with 2020; however, having escaped illness, unemployment and homelessness, my family’s life could be considered decadent by those who have been touched by tragedy. The biggest loss we suffered was the cancellation of our annual family holiday camping on Masthead Island. Nothing devastating, but to us this holiday is everything – it binds our souls as a family. Two weeks of snorkelling, living on the beach, in touch with tide and moon cycles. No housework, homework, cars, internet; no care for the world… cancelled due to lockdown. We grieved and felt guilty for grieving as we watched the horror unfold overseas. We understood how lucky we were, which made our grief seem petty. It seemed decadent to mourn our island holiday, making it the perfect subject matter for my work.
Photographer: Amanda Dickson
Redemption Series – Echidna
Deborah Mostert, 2019
Artist Location: Ipswich
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 103 x 76 x 3 cm
Artist Statement:
I picked up this little female echidna after she was hit by a car and took her back to the studio to both mourn her passing and try to redeem her death. I drew and painted her over a day or so before taking her to the Queensland Museum where she will prepared as a study skin for the collection. When there is decadence in our society it seems it is so often at the expense of the natural world.
I have inverted the traditional museum cloche with it’s attendant practices of killing animals for specimens and hinted at the redemptive threads that bind all living creatures.
We no longer shoot animals for our museum collections, but we probably kill many more in wanton carelessness.
Photographer: Deborah Mostert
Decadence (Vote for this Artwork)
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Jane du Rand, 2020
Artist Location: Ipswich
Medium: Glazed ceramic sculpture with oxides and gold lustre
Dimensions: 8 x 36 x 41 cm
Artist Statement:
Three dead charred rainbow lorikeets are arranged on a decorative platter, as left overs from a feast.
The word decadence makes me think of excessive indulgence, I imagine a banquet with waste and uneaten food.
Recently the images that have been stuck in my head have been some photographs I saw taken on the beach at Mallacoota after the summer bushfires, of the charred remains of birds caught in the fires with bits of coloured plumage in amongst the black ashes. I have also been coming across a number of dead lorikeets while out bush walking, and have collected these and photographed them.
These images make me think of the decadent way we treat our environment. How we, as humans don?t care, how we waste, not only resources, but also the lives of the creatures that share our planet, and how we do this for our pleasure.
Photographer: Eve Caillon
Snappy Gums in the Pilbara (Vote for this Artwork)
Nonie Metzler, 2019
Artist Location: Gympie
Medium: relief print
Dimensions: 22.5 x 30 x 0.1 cm
Artist Statement:
Definitions of ‘decadence’ include *’falling into decay’ or, almost diametrically opposed, ‘luxuriously self-indulgent’. When travelling through Karijini National Park in the Pilbara Region of Western Australia I was struck by the dramatic profusion of white gums against the red, stony landscape. On closer observation many limbs of the trees were starkly black – as they decayed and dropped off. Hence the name – ‘Snappy Gums’. The glowing white with a deep black was striking and reflected a ‘decadent’ contrast.
* Reference: Macquarie Concise Dictionary
Photographer: Nonie Metzler
Lantana Hills no. 2 (Vote for this Artwork)
Jenny Neubecker, 2020
Artist Location: Waterloo
Medium: Pastel, graphite and collage on canvas
Dimensions: 91 x 60 x 3 cm
Artist Statement:
Queensland’s relentless, hot, dry summers strip the life out of the landscape. Soft pastures and rolling hills wisely surrender to the harsh conditions of summer. For month after month the bleached landscape waits patiently and uncomfortably for that first summer rain.
When it finally comes grasses, that seem to be barely clinging to life, burst vigorously into new growth and the landscape erupts into masses of vivid greens. Soon after, other plant species emerge prolifically to join the grasses and the landscape is brushed with swathes of the rich, decadent purples and mauves of creeping lantana. Every living thing seems to rush frantically to grow, flower and seed then bask in some short-lived decadence knowing, and waiting for, the cycle of dry and wet that will inevitably follow.
Photographer: Jenny Neubecker
“She’ll be right.” (Vote for this Artwork)
Catherine Boreham, 2020
Artist Location: Farnborough
Medium: Acrylic on canvas
Dimensions: 61 x 51 x 4 cm
Artist Statement:
Two cockatoos operating a popcorn machine is not something you see everyday. In fact, I’d never seen it until I created this artwork. It would be considered a decadence in the animal realm. To me, it appears they both have their own self interest at heart and they lack self control. I doubt the consequences of over indulging ever crossed their minds before the fact.
On a personal note, my painting inspires me to put others interests above mine and sharing what I’ve been entrusted is so important to me.
Photographer: Catherine Boreham
REAP
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Donna Davis, 2020
Artist Location: Deebing Heights
Medium: Video
Dimensions: 30 x 54 x 3 cm
Artist Statement:
Decadence is an ephemeral and unsustainable state.
This work explores the fleeting nature of decadence and invites the viewer to consider the natural world not merely for our pleasure, rather as a multitude of interconnected life that supports the health of our planet.
Collections that house human artefacts have their climate conditions monitored and regulated to ensure the longevity and survival of their contents. But what steps are we taking to regulate climate conditions on planet Earth, the living collection that houses all species, including the human?
With carbon stores continuing to fuel our decadent lifestyles, what are we prepared to change to allow our planet to heal? The work reminds us that we reap what we sow, and asks what will we sow for our future…
Photographer: Donna Davis
Sensuous Decadence (Vote for this Artwork)
Kuweni Dias Mendis, 2020
Artist Location: Beechmont
Medium: Pastel on Paper
Dimensions: 70 x 50 x 1 cm
Artist Statement:
In Beechmont we do not have town water, we fill up our tanks with mostly rainwater. Baths and Showers are a luxury to have as the water we collect over the year we save for our more essential tasks such as drinking, cooking and washing, later the grey water is used on our food forests.
The water holes and waterfalls are a sensuous decadence. All year around we have access to an abundance of waterways that is flourishing, thriving and overflowing; it’s an indulgence on the hum of our mountain.
We are surrounded by the unassuming Back Creek Gorge, which has been slowly carved on to the mountain over many million years. This Creek later links to the Coomera River then en-routes to the Sea. Before it meets the sea it falls six times as Killarney Falls, Lips Falls, Twin Falls, Cavern Falls, Rainbow Falls and Denham Falls.
Photographer: Louis Lim
Grey days are gold! (Vote for this Artwork)
Kerry Wilson, 2020
Artist Location: Yandina
Medium: Mixed media on paper
Dimensions: 57 x 0.2 x 38 cm
Artist Statement:
It was a rainy Saturday in lockdown. I spent the morning in bed reading art magazines, drinking tea and eating toast. “How decadent!” I thought. Later that day I did this drawing “Grey days are gold” about the importance of enjoying the simple pleasures in life.
I used an automatic technique to start the work with acrylic washes and a Chinese brush.
Then layered with gesso, colour pencil and oil pastels to bring together soft shades of grey clouds and the blue sky that I knew would be back soon. Gold symbolises the pleasure and decadence that can occur in everyday, ordinary events.
Photographer: Kerry Wilson
A Morally Corrosive Substance (Vote for this Artwork)
Carson Smith, 2019
Artist Location: Highfields
Medium: Acrylic on stretched canvas over wood frame
Dimensions: 76.5 x 61 x 4 cm
Artist Statement:
Decadence is typically associated with an over-indulgence or excessive use of something. It can also suggest falling standards, especially morals.
An addiction can be defined as the inability to stop consuming a substance, or conducting an activity, even though it is causing psychological and/or physical harm.
We are aware of the harmful effects of an addiction to drugs, but what about the harmful effects of an addiction to money?
For we have developed a venal culture in which the accumulation of excessive wealth is applauded, and conspicuous consumption is encouraged. A culture where civic ideals such as equality and justice are increasingly just hollow slogans. The failure to guard against our own avarice and to protect the common good however, is symptomatic of our moral decay.
Money, it seems the more you have, the more you want… and that is an addiction.
Money – the gateway drug to decadence.
Photographer: Kerwin Ross
Group (Vote for this Artwork)
Second Image of Artwork
Barbara Pierce, 2019
Artist Location: Townsville
Medium: Mixed media
Dimensions: 29 x 38 x 5 cm
Artist Statement:
During the period of the current pandemic we have had isolation imposed upon us. Combining isolation at home – physically separating or distancing from each other – with restrictions on our movements has provided more time for reflection on our surroundings and circumstances.
These individual small works brought together as a group have qualities in common: restraint, separateness, a connection to shelter and each other also the use of household materials and acrylic paint. The pieces tied with string have recorded respectively the measurements of: a table top, cupboard, and window perimeters.
A stitched folded and tied piece of tablecloth secures the tongue of a shoe in one piece while collage pieces are attached to the outside of another ‘shelter’ shape. It seems decadent that the pandemic has given the luxury of time in which to contemplate our household surroundings whilst the full blown horror of it all unfolds somewhere.
Photographer: Barbara Pierce
Seagull and Crane – a traditional Lardil story from Mornington Island
Joelene Roughsey, 2020
Artist Location: Gununa, Mornington Island
Medium: Acrylic on linen
Dimensions: 101.5 x 101 x 2 cm
Artist Statement:
This Traditional story shows that avoiding responsibility and assuming a decadent, privileged attitude and being a bully will result in some real consequences. This story is told often here on island.
Seagull and Crane – A traditional Lardil story from Mornington Island
On peaceful Bende Reef, out from Biberr, lived the Seagull Woman and her husband, the Crane Man and their little baby. The Crane Man would go out hunting for fish, oysters, and crabs. Sometimes he’d bring back a little bit of food for the family, but not always.
One day when he did come back with food, Crane said to his wife, “Well, Seagull, you gotta get up and cook now. I got some food here for you to cook and it’s my turn to have a rest.” And, then he went and laid down. Sometimes he would just eat his catch out there where he was hunting, and sometimes he didn’t come back at all. One time he was gone for three years.
After three years he walked back up and said, “Hey, it’s me. I’ve come back.” Seagull Woman was not impressed. Seagull Woman took the baby on her little walpa (raft) and dragged it along, dragged it along with the rope.
And she dragged, and she dragged it round and round and round. Cutting deep channels into the land until the water flooded in. While she dragged that walpa she sang that lajirambena (lullaby) song. And so she separated the islands from the mainland by creating those channels of water.
Some people say that Seagull Woman also put a curse on the Crane Man. Because nowadays the Crane can only hunt in shallow water. But Seagull Woman, she’s strong. She can hunt on the open sea, she can fly around and dive, and she can hunt in shallow water or deep water. She has a big family and can look after herself.
Photographer: MIART Mornington Island Art
straightjacket snakeskin (Vote for this Artwork)
Danish Quapoor, 2020
Artist Location: Townsville
Medium: Acrylic and paint pen on primed, stretched paper
Dimensions: 40.5 x 50.5 x 2 cm
Artist Statement:
straightjacket snakeskin’ references personal and observed experiences to explore the perception of non-heteronormativity as a self-indulgent choice. The subject sheds clothes and skin – his death a punishment for, and presentation of, perceived moral decadence. The inner skeleton sits erect inside of a naked man – a sexualised enactment of ‘coming out’ and shedding the mask of heterosexuality. The skeleton appears willing to kill the man to live deliciously – a parody of the view that queer people may as well be committing violent crimes.
The skeleton’s naked human jacket also references the potency and hypocrisy of ‘The Emperor’s New Clothes.’ The class divides and perils of capitalism highlighted by COVID-19 parallel the fictional emperor buying luxurious clothes at the expense of his people. The work also suggests shedding the hypocrisy of seeing decadence in others’ behaviours and possessions, but not admitting or seeing our own luxuries.
Photographer: Danish Quapoor
The Opulent Lady (Vote for this Artwork)
Susan Ball, 2020
Artist Location: Point Arkwright
Medium: Acrylic on framed canvas
Dimensions: 45.8 x 45.8 x 6 cm
Artist Statement:
The Opulent Lady,’ is oblivious to the impending danger of bushfires and the tidal wave about to spoil her decadent high tea at Peregian Beach at the Sunshine Coast, Queensland.
The notion of luxury and self-indulgence is depicted in the painting by ‘The Opulent Lady’ being adorned in a beautiful dress and sunhat with an abundance of food, all of which will be sadly wasted ? a wanton excess!
However, had ‘The Opulent Lady?’ been more aware she would not have proceeded with her whimsical high tea putting others at risk to save her.
Now, more than ever, during these COVID-19 times, it is important for ‘The Opulent Lady’ and others to be mindful of their actions and to consider those around them more and act less selfishly.
It is a time of true awakening.
Photographer: Susan Ball
Chocolate Cake (Vote for this Artwork)
Alana Read, 2020
Artist Location: Cawarral
Medium: Watercolour on Paper
Dimensions: 23 x 30 x 1 cm
Artist Statement:
Chocolate by nature is decadently rich, sensuous, luxurious and sinful.
Where there is sin, there is guilt and pleasure.
‘Chocolate Cake’ takes us on a journey beginning with a spiral path which leads us downward into the dark, delicious central depths of our wanton being.
Taking a bite means succumbing to our need for satisfaction and rewards us with a state of contented, indulgent bliss.
Experimentation with luscious pearlescent gold and blue metallic watercolour paints to highlight some areas, added an extra sparkle of luxury to this painting.
I took almost as much pleasure in painting this piece as I do eating chocolate cake, which is my personal choice of self-indulgence when life gets too much.
Photographer: Alana Read
Leaving Only Memories (Vote for this Artwork)
Tricia Reust, 2020
Artist Location: Clontarf
Medium: Mixed Media on Canvas
Dimensions: 76.5 x 76.5 x 4 cm
Artist Statement:
Deteriorating farm structures I see when driving through inland areas are poignant reminders of dreams and hopes lived through and then abandoned. As more powerful elements finance extraction of minerals and water and ore from the Australian land, smaller farmers and producers are forced from this land.
The level of decadent wages and benefits enjoyed by those in power is in strong contrast to the level of earnings by those faced with bankruptcy and then ultimately the reality of losing their property.
‘Decadent’ can mean morally corrupt. It is a corrupt practice to benefit from business and banking measures that profit from misfortune.
This artwork has texture applied over acrylic on collage, with layers of charcoal.
Photographer: Mark Lutz
Rivers, Creeks & Streams
Kylie Stevens, 2020
Artist Location: Pine Mountain
Medium: River water, copper leaf, earth, charcoal and acrylic on canvas
Dimensions: 76 x 91 x 5 cm
Artist Statement:
Witnessing our waterways treated with decadence, becoming polluted and chocked dry, leads me to showcase them highlighting the beauty and alchemy of nature, inspiring in the viewer a deeper respect for and desire to protect our precious natural spaces.
River water thins my paint, allowing it to pool and travel across the canvas. With the addition of ochres collected from my property and ground charcoal the canvas is marked, giving control to the river itself in this stage of the work. Then, with intent and precision, I map the river in charcoal and copper leaf upon the richly-textured surface. Using the natural elements of river water and earth, the work contains the essence of the place it represents.
I am an Ipswich-based artist working with and within the environment. My diverse multimedia arts practice allows me the flexibility to express my deep connection with, and reverence for, nature.
Photographer: Kylie Stevens
Decadence Ruins (Vote for this Artwork)
Chelle McIntyre, 2020
Artist Location: Toowoomba
Medium: Disgarded plywood and oak veneer assemblage with wax
Dimensions: 70 x 80 x 3 cm
Artist Statement:
Humans maintain a rage against nature through demand and desire, a hungry appetite fed by the machine that rumbles on, making money out of making stuff. Environment is under pressure yet we persevere in the pursuit for more, forsaking the natural world for industrial progress and material prosperity. As a horticulturalist, I have been moved by changes in our weather systems and the on-going disrespect for trees, our aquifers and their contribution to planet. 2019 was another dry time in my region, without rain old established trees were dying and the hottest season ended in the new year’s summer of fires across the country. Nature and forests are my true decadence, an escape from a hectic, manufactured world to another where the wealth of life and growth perhaps may soon be rare and then finally appreciated. This memory of trees was salvaged from processed, discarded wood.
Photographer: Don Hildred
A Case of Commoner Salt (Vote for this Artwork)
Saren Dobkins, 2020
Artist Location: Tewantin
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 100 x 120 x 4 cm
Artist Statement:
This speaks to the growing protests around the world against entrenched power and privilege enjoyed by the few. Paintings hung in hallowed halls are pulled to the ground by a common man who rails against the decadence that excess wealth affords them. Salt, a currency once mined in unbearable conditions has been replaced by moneybags. Equally sordid working conditions exist today, his becoming barefoot shows this poverty. The waving of flags, an impotent symbol of protest won?t change a law, but the turnout of thousands on the street just might, and so he marches. He has toppled a suited man, a symbol of modern excessive consumption. The protesting man moves towards the removing of another figure of power. Based on the portrait of George Washington, “El Presi Dente,” represents the apex of power currently held by a man of questionable integrity. The sold sticker shows he has Sold Out.
Photographer: Saren Dobkins
Sunset Over Purga (Vote for this Artwork)
Grant Quinn, 2020
Artist Location: Bundamba
Medium: Digital photograph
Dimensions: 30 x 30 x 1 cm
Artist Statement:
Louis Armstrong once sang “What A Wonderful World”.
We live in a world full of hope, but over time, society has taken our world for granted. A world of decadent greed, a world that seems to spend to much time pointing the finger of blame, instead of working towards positive solutions. Topics such as climate change, emissions and waste being top on the agenda, but we need to step up, together, and make this world a better place, not just for us now, but for the generations to come. If we all make a change, we can continue to see our world at the end of each day, as it should be, one beautiful sunset after another.
Photographer: Grant Quinn
Cockatoo Crackle Banquet (Vote for this Artwork)
Louise Dean, 2020
Artist Location: Pentland
Medium: Acrylic on canvas
Dimensions: 30 x 61 x 3.5 cm
Artist Statement:
Nestled within the depths of Queensland’s White Mountains National Park, just a stone’s throw from my back door, nature’s pure essence evokes a cacophony of colour and sound as feasting native birds imbibe in a banquet of wildflowers, flaunted in abundant glory.
Droughts, fires and finally welcome soaking rains combine with nature to create an astounding habitat recovery – grass-tree spears coated in seeds, blossoming banksia, purple heather, golden grevilleas and bright yellow wattle intermingle comfortably together, their myriad colours and textures offset by shades of earth, sky and flowering eucalypts.
And with the wildflowers come the flocks of birds, naturally seizing advantage and the opportunity to partake of a banquet during times of plenty and excess.
Pure simple decadence – especially if you’re a cockatoo and an artist with a paint brush!!
Photographer: Louise Dean
All that Glitters (Vote for this Artwork)
Second Image of Artwork
Julie Field, 2019
Artist Location: Eumundi
Medium: Glazed ceramic
Dimensions: 21 x 30 x 11 cm
Artist Statement:
All that glitters is not gold, it could be a horse!! Acquired and bred in many countries as a status symbol, sign of power, wealth and hierarchy. The humble equine could be purchased one year for over 1 million dollars and the next, given away. It’s with their forever home they become priceless.
Photographer: Julie Field
Your Reflection (Vote for this Artwork)
Karena, Siu Nga Ip, 2019
Artist Location: Cairns
Medium: Watercolour on canvas
Dimensions: 60 x 76 x 4 cm
Artist Statement:
The Artist presents “Your Reflection” with Australian proud – World Natural Heritage Area, the Great Barrier Reef as the background.
Finger corals of the same tone represent thousands of tourists, while expressing how human desire dominates this place, dominates the fate of the innocent future generation in their own hands.
The Artist has begun to explore the Great Barrier Reef since 2012 and witnessed the decadence in our eco-system and the changes of the underwater-environment of the reef. Hoping to awaken the empathy among ourselves. We have destroyed the habitats of one species after another because of our living style and needs. Forgotten mankind is just one of the passers-by on the Earth, not its owner.
The Artist has drawn her inspiration from one of her Dive at Norman Reef (approx.70-80km from Cairns), the Great Barrier Reef.
Photographer: Karena, Siu Nga Ip