Finalist x Petite Pieces: Top 100, 2026

This little 30x30cm painting has been selected as a finalist in Aspire Gallery's Petite Pieces: Top 100 show in Paddington, Brisbane!

Inspired by a visit to Brisbane's Botanical Gardens, in retrospect it might have been more appropriate to put a bin chicken (ibis) on the roof of this building rather than a blackbird! What I liked about this image was the three rooftop whirly birds that are already on the roof, and then a real bird has come along to join the party, making it four.

The building itself is the cafe at the top of the park, which serves a lovely coffee if you're ever over that way. On a chilly morning, the light streams through the trees, and it feels pretty magical.

The exhibition is on at Aspire Gallery throughout July and August, open on Saturdays and during the week by appointment. This painting is currently available to buy via their website!

"Four Rooftop Birds", 30x30cm acrylic on cradled birch