Abstractions Inspired by Spirit of Place: The River House Commission

Charlotte Wensley
Feb 23, 2024
3 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

The River House Commission was created in response to a unique setting—a home perched above the Noosa River, where water, light, and shifting reflections define the atmosphere of place; lending itself beautifully to abstraction.

Abstract collage with vibrant red, pink, and orange patterns. Geometric shapes and textures intertwine, creating a lively, dynamic composition.

Each painting was conceived to echo the rhythms of the river, the riverbanks, and the passing watercraft. They offer a dialogue of abstraction between the different energies of the river and the home itself.

Trees abound along this particular stretch of the Noosa river and with houseboats at anchor and vessels regularly passing the home, the visual focus was for me, the body of water and the energy flow that connects the home to its environment.

Together, the works were designed to not just complement the living area of the home but to extend the experience of living with the river to the interior walls of the house.

The client chose the colour combinations and the size of each panel 120cm (H) x 85cm (W), wanting the pieces to hang separately, but making reference to each other and read as one for a main wall in the living space.

Getting to know the client as the project progressed was fundamental in ensuring the finished paintings resonated with the clients life journey, encompassing travel and adventure and a personal philosophy of embracing the passage of life.

Each painting began quite individually but as the 3 panels came together I chose to link them with a recognisable visual element that would read across the lower portion of each panel to weave a story about the river at different times of the day.

(2024)

| Panel One

In the first panel gentle layers of golden colour and organic textures speak to the calm of the river at dawn, while the deeper contrasts hint at the conversation between earthly energy, shifting currents that play beneath the surface and the dance of early sunlight on the river.

Mixed Media on Board

120cm x 85cm

Framed in Australian Oak

Abstract artwork with orange and yellow patchwork of rectangles, circles, and lines. Features polka dots and varied textures, evoking warmth. — River House I

Framed abstract painting with gold, brown, and black squares on wall. White vase and woven basket with cloth on wooden floor. Minimalist decor.

Original - SOLD

| Panel Two

The second work, with it's stronger light/dark contrast is descriptive of the river at midday with heightened shadow play and a greater focus on passing vessels. Patterns created by ripples and references to water evoke a sense of the river in a state of heightened activity, with the tidal flows ebbing and flowing more visibly. The river is endlessly captivating during the day with the comings and goings of all kinds of boats.

Mixed Media on Board

120cm x 85cm

Framed in Australian Oak

Abstract painting with geometric patterns in orange, blue, and black tones. Intricate shapes and lines create a vibrant mosaic effect.

Cozy living room with abstract painting, gray sofa, chessboard on wooden table, and floor lamp. Neutral tones with a relaxed vibe. — River House II

Original - SOLD

| Panel Three

The third painting brings the soft end of the day into focus, balancing gentle rounded forms with the riverbank trees which catch the the late afternoon light and the dusty pinks of sunset. It is the final glimpse of the river for the day, creating a sense of restfulness and completing the energy flow of the triptych.

Mixed Media on Board

120cm x 85cm

Framed in Australian Oak

Abstract collage with vibrant red, pink, and yellow patterns. Features layered geometric shapes and textures, creating a dynamic, lively mood.

Living room with a colorful abstract painting on a white wall, modern furniture including a white sofa, patterned pillows, and a glass vase. — River House III

Original - SOLD

| Final Thoughts

The River House Commission embodies the spirit of place, honouring the unique beauty of the Noosa River which creates a deeply personal connection with the people who live alongside it. This triptych of works evokes vitality and a strong emotional connection to the riverine environment. These paintings serve as a reminder of the enduring constancy of nature and the positive energy we can derive from being close to it.

The paintings took 3 months to complete were installed in February 2024.