Daniel Rivers
After completing his studies in architecture at the University of Newcastle, Daniel Rivers relocated to the Illawarra for work. It’s here that the dramatic layers of escarpment and coastal village surroundings have become key inspirations for his work and art practice. Self-taught, Rivers works mostly with soft pastels. Loose strokes, side scrapes and fine edged details of colour are experimented with to capture the surroundings. The escarpment, ever present, is rich with life. Flocks of cockatoos routinely manoeuvre through tall eucalypts, whilst the towering cliffs capture the shifting light. Everyday moments like these are quickly captured in sketchbooks and are later explored in the studio (often the dining room table). Details and colours are later added from memory, allowing personal experiences to seep into the art and communicate the rich narratives of place. Works are then encased in frames carefully handcrafted by the artist using Australian hardwoods. Rivers hopes this small collection of work captures the essence of his appreciation for both the natural and built environments of suburban Australia.
Daniel Rivers, The Corner Store Gallery.