"This year I am retiring as a professional artist. A common response to this news is ‘How can you retire from something that isn’t work in the first place?’ This is a misunderstanding! To use the words of Thomas Edison, good art is 99% perspiration and only 1% inspiration. In this exhibition I wish to explain a bit about the work that lies behind the oil paintings I have produced over the last 16 years. There will be paintings from different stages of my career on display, though most will be recent ones." Philip Miles 

Marc Poisson and Janetha Poisson-Lyon return to The Garden with their enchanting exhibition 'Vistas Of The Illawarra'. 

Capturing the sheer beauty of the Illawarra, including Kiama and the Shoalhaven region - this stunning exhibition celebrates the bright, sunlit colour and atmosphere of the landscape, as well as the birdlife in all its shining splendour. Come along and enjoy the extraordinary visuals of this remarkable region of NSW.

Jack's work is inspired by the mythology of the Australian bush, “her beauty and her terror”, a mythos deeply ingrained in our national psyche.

Abstract and calligraphic, echoing shapes and patterns observed in nature, he creates acrylic paintings imbued with a sense of mystery and allure, exploring our sense of identity and our uneasy relationship with the natural landscape.

'The Four Elements' explores the harmonious interplay of fire, water, air, and earth, elements that not only shape our environment but also inform Natalija's artistic process.

Robyn has lived in Foxground since the late 1970's and it and the surrounding lands continue to inspire her work. Lately her style has taken on a more abstract direction, but it is always inspired by sketches and photos that she has made on location. Her work features lively colour schemes and interesting textures and often incorporates other elements like collage.

Celebrating the unique natural beauty of this stunning part of Australia; from the mist covered escarpment of the Illawarra, to the ocean pools of Gerringong, and the Waratahs in full bloom under flocks of black cockatoos.

Lavender and iris are in full bloom, sunflower and canola fields a momentary joy. These paintings have been captured quickly, inviting the observer to look deeper, tempting one to step a little closer, gaze a little longer, before the sun shifts, shadows move and the brief magic moves on...

Helen's previous background in music is an unconscious influence on her work, as she paints quickly and freely, particularly in the early stages of a work. She enjoys painting a range of subjects and loves to experiment with a variety of mediums.

"Impressions - My Way" features some of Helen's most recent works, covering impressionistic landscapes, floral studies and still life, using mixed media and acrylics.

"As an artist, my work has always been deeply intertwined with the natural world, and in this exhibition, I invite you to explore the profound beauty and significance of trees through my paintings. Trees are not merely elements of our landscape; they are living beings that tell stories of endurance, resilience, and connection..."

Heather’s immersive works explore the wondrous, refreshing aquamarines of the ocean’s waters, greys of a stormy day, the secret gold and pinks of dawn,  the soft hues of dusk, the incredible creatures of the underwater world and the human form enjoying the ocean. 

Step into a world of vibrant storytelling through colour, texture, and joyful mark-making. 'Above & Below' draws inspiration from Nicky's recent journey through Queensland, diving deep into the wonders beneath the sea - gliding stingrays, flourishing corals, schools of fish, and a mysterious “water woman” who explores these hidden realms...

"This collection of work celebrates the little things that bring us comfort and happiness. From homegrown vegetables to warm cups of tea... it's the little things that evoke a sense of peace in our lives and ground us to our happy place. I have chosen to work small for this exhibition and focused on individual subjects in my home and garden that bring me joy."