Nasturtiums blog, Josh Richards

Nasturtiums, 2002 by Cressida Campbell

When one thinks imagines the concept of art, they often picture extravagant and revolutionary artworks that inspire new styles, ideas and creations. Although, not all art must be complex, as sometimes true creativity and innovations stems from simplicity. This is most definitely the case with the Still Life piece, Nasturtiums, by Australian-born artist, Cressida Campbell, which captures the subtle beauty of the bright and vibrant flowers.

Nasturtiums is a Still Life colour woodblock painting, created in 2002. It is 55.4 centimetres in height and 60 centimetres wide and is set in vertical axis.  After spending some time in Japan, studying at the Yoshida Hanga Academy in Tokyo, Cressida was inspired to integrate many Japanese techniques into her artwork, including colour woodblock painting, which is a key feature in many of her pieces.

The artworks consists of many different elements, such as the use of balance, texture and a clever palette of colours. This painting depicts three decorative white and grey china bowls, containing various vibrant flora, upon a dark blue tablecloth. An expansive range of colours have been implemented in this piece, including dark and navy blue, earthy maroon trimmed with a darkish gold, and light jade green used in the tablecloth, various mixes of bright whites and yellows, oranges, dark reds and radiant whites used in the vibrant flower petals, combined with multiple shades of light and dark greens used in the flower stems and leaves and clay-like greys and muted dark whites used in the detailed china bowls. Many of the shapes in this piece are made with fine detailed line and are spread quite evenly across the space, creating a wonderful balance between the different elements. Due to the artwork being created upon wood, the piece has a wonderful rough texture, which adds character and personality into this simple piece.

Behind every painting there is a message, whether it is hidden through symbolism or in clear view, the meaning is the core basis of the artwork. Nasturtiums is a painting showcasing various Nasturtium (Tropaeolum) flowers contained in simple china bowls. At first glance, one may think this painting may not have an underlying message, but in fact, this subtle piece may have various meanings. This painting showcases the beauty and character of the flowers. It is very honest and does not exaggerate details, but still remains an attractive painting. This painting demonstrates the message of one staying true to themselves, as real beauty lies in one’s character. It teaches us to be honest and true to ourselves in the midst of adversity. This piece demonstrates that sometimes simplicity, can be more expressive and eye-catching than the complex and extravagant.

In conclusion, Nasturtiums is a wonderfully made painting and deserves to be hung on the walls of various building across the world. Even though, the artwork may not be a revolutionary contributor to the history of the Still Art genre, it is of importance to Australian art. All credit goes to Cressida Campbell for the stunning piece she has created.

Josh Richards