Blue Vase

Blue Vase Original Oil on Belgian Linen 42cm x 55cm.

Original artwork by John McCartin.

Johns Inspiration: “Not long before I painted this, we bought the house we were renting. In the back yard I discovered a red Japonica growing. I thought of an oriental vase in my collection which would be useful in a still life. I set the display up in my new studio where I have three different easels. This enables me to have several paintings on the go at once and allows the occasional spontaneous response to a new subject such as this one. The deep blue oriental vase, red Japonica and deep background created a strong contrast in terms of both colour and light”.
Traditionally, some of the objects in a still life were likely to have selected for their symbolic meaning, but this symbolism eludes most modern-day visitors. Cut flowers or a piece of decaying fruit, for instance, symbolism mortality. But a still life painting doesn’t have to have symbolism. Cezanne is perhaps the most famous painter of apples simply for the colours, shapes, and perspective possibilities. Light particularly is a notable feature of his work, prompting comments by many viewers, artists and reputable judges. These qualities in combination with John’s keen power of observation, superb drawing skill and passionate response to an inexhaustible array of subjects, sets him apart from other artists.
John McCartin was born in Sydney on March 9th 1954, and showed remarkable drawing ability at a young age and felt strangely attracted to the Australian landscape. Painting as a hobby since 1974, John has now taken on landscape painting more seriously and on a professional basis since 1991. He has been influenced greatly by artists such as Hans Heysen, Elioth Gruner and Arthur Streeton whose unpretentious works have inspired him over many years.
In 2011 John won International Artist Magazines prestigious first prize, making him ‘Best artist in the world’. It was a complete surprise to a humble John, yet a reward for the incredible artworks he produces. As part of his prize, John was given the opportunity to travel and paint through the English countryside & through areas of Europe. His six week study tour created some amazing paintings. John who lives in South Australia travels widely to capture his subjects, always making sketches and studies as he travels. John has been described by many of Australia’s leading artists as one of the most talented artists in Australia and now the world agrees! John has won 115 international art awards and his paintings are excellent investments.