A new exhibition by award-winning realist artist Chris Moule has been unveiled at Harcourt Produce and General Store.
A Brush with Colour features watercolours, acrylic and oil paintings and intricate pen and ink and pencil drawings. It includes a series around a central theme, ‘Before, during and after the 2026 bushfires’, which left devastation and heartbreak from Walmer through Harcourt to Sutton Grange.
The Sutton Grange artist said this exhibition was deeply personal.
“The fire burnt to within less than a kilometre from our home and so many of our friends across the region were impacted,” he said.
Chris has lived in the area for 22 years and spent much of that time capturing the beauty of the local landscape painting en plein air, creating works that reflect his love of landscape and nature.
“The fire was absolutely horrific and devastating and has dramatically altered the landscape,” he said.
The artist wanted to show his support for Annette Larsen and the team a Harcourt Produce and General Store who were huge supporters of the community during and after the fires.
“Annette has always been a big supporter of local artists and producers, but is also so generous in her support of the wider community,” he said.
“I wanted to create a show that would be a drawcard and offer a chance to process what has happened and begin the healing.”
The works include scenes before and after the fire and a couple during the crisis created using photographs captured by neighbour and friend Natalie McCarthy.
The exhibition also showcases a selection of Moule’s previous works inspired by stunning landscapes across Victoria.
His depictions of the Australian bush, creeks, rivers, beaches, bridges and mountain ranges capture the changing light on canvas with pleasing complexity and an impressive eye for detail.
The latest show also includes a quirky, sprawling pen and ink piece, Hidden Treasures in Wild Duck Creek Lake Eppalock, which contains 40 hidden items prompting the viewer to hunt for the treasures within.
The formal opening will take place this Friday August 14 at 2pm. All are welcome to attend.
A Brush with Colour runs until September 13. Works are for sale so you can take home a glimpse of local history.
The store is located at 115 Harmony Way, Harcourt and is open Wed-Sun 9am-3pm.