Episode 216 - David Collins, painter inspired by the Hawkesbury river

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Art Wank, we delve into the world of Australian landscape painter David Collins, whose latest solo exhibition, Brevity, is currently on view at Defiance Gallery in Sydney from May 3 to 24, 2025 .

Collins has been a significant figure in the Australian art scene since the early 1990s . Residing on Dangar Island in the Hawkesbury River since 1987, his daily interactions with the river—often by rowboat—deeply inform his artistic practice . His works are known for their meditative quality, blending abstraction with a profound sense of place.

Brevity continues this exploration, offering a series of paintings that reflect Collins' intimate connection with the Australian landscape. The exhibition showcases his ability to distill vast natural scenes into compositions that are both evocative and restrained.

Throughout his career, Collins has participated in numerous residencies, including the Australian Wildlife Conservancy Residency in Queensland and the Nock Art Foundation Residency in New Zealand . His work has been recognised in prestigious awards such as the Wynne Prize and the Salon des Refusés.

In our conversation, Collins discusses his artistic journey, the influence of his surroundings, and the themes present in Brevity. He shares insights into his process and the philosophies that underpin his work.

Join us as we explore the nuanced landscapes of David Collins and gain a deeper understanding of his contribution to contemporary Australian art.

Brevity is on display at Defiance Gallery, 12 Mary Place, Paddington, NSW, until May 24, 2025. For more information, visit defiancegallery.com.