163. Where the Sunlight Glows

Artwork number: 163
Artist: Melanie Van Impe
Medium: Oil on canvas
Description: Inspired by the endangered Carnaby's black cockatoos and their connection to Western Australia's tuart woodlands, this painting celebrates the beauty and fragility of our natural environment.
I wanted to capture a moment of movement and life as these remarkable birds gather among the native foliage, surrounded by the soft glow of sunlight. Their presence reminds me of the importance of the places they call home and how closely the survival of our wildlife is connected to the protection of its habitat.
Through this painting, I hope to encourage a deeper appreciation for these beautiful birds and a greater awareness of the need to protect them and the tuart woodlands they depend on.
My hope is that future generations will still be able to look up and see Carnaby's black cockatoos flying freely where the sunlight glows.
Artist statement: My art is inspired by the beauty of the natural world and the personal connections we form with the places and people we love. Through my paintings, I aim to capture not only what I see, but also the feelings and memories that make a moment meaningful.
I am drawn to the landscapes of Western Australia, particularly its coastline, where the colours, textures and changing light create a constant source of inspiration. My work often reflects a deep appreciation for nature and the simple moments in life that we sometimes take for granted.
For me, painting is a way to preserve these moments and share what they mean to me. I hope my work encourages others to pause, connect with their own memories and appreciate the beauty in the world around.