The fantastical in this new group of recent paintings by Melbourne –based artist, Stephen Bush lead the viewer down a weird and wonderful path. A series of lush, rich, explosive works, Bush further develops his mindful contemplation of the word “desire” and its many and varied implications.

Bush has established a strong presence in Australia for his depictions of diverse subjects such as potatoes, flies, farming machinery, antiquated computers, and ambiguous yet intriguing landscapes. In HEOVELAKEN, the artist extends his surreal world in the attempt to further explore an element which is unexplainable, one driven by the unconscious. Continuing with a fascination with the alpine vista/mountain location and home structures, the 8 large scale paintings suggest the mountain vista as a metaphor for life’s accent or quest for fulfilment, be it personal, spiritual or financial, relating to our individual inherent ambitions. Set against this energetic contemplation is the image of a dwelling, a fanciful form of shelter, individualised to meet our particular needs.

“Stephen Bush’s…landscapes contrast mountainous heights with small-scale wooden shacks, the tumultuous environs representing what Bush calls a ‘quest for fulfilment’ and the rough cabin symbolising a refuge.”

What is most important in these works is that part which is unexplainable, that part which is driven by the unconscious. The meaning can be found more in the process I use than in any other part.