By KATH GANNAWAY
Di King and John Thomas share lots of things – including paint under their fingernails.
The Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges have been home and inspiration for artists over the decades and the Healesville-based husband and wife painters are among the best known of the region’s renaissance art movement that has put art back in the picture as a tourism drawcard.
The couple are enthusiastic supporters of the local art scene and have exhibited at events such as the annual Open Studios Weekend and group exhibitions, in addition to their own, permanent Di King Gallery in Healesville.
The gallery provides an opportunity for visitors to not only see in one place the broad scope of their work and individual styles, but to meet the artists during exhibitions, and at other times throughout the year.
Di is a multi-award winning artist whose work is of an impressionistic realist nature and subjects include nature, landscape and portraiture.
Light is a constant character in her works which create the atmosphere suited to the subject.
Many of her works capture the essence of the Yarra Valley, and of Australia, featuring the bush, gum trees and cattlemen.
Di’s love of the bush and all things Australian and her love of cattle drives, horsemen, river crossings and the High Country as inspiration for her paintings, along with her ploughing scenes, have become synonymous with her art.
The search for that elusive ‘special’ subject or scene, the moment or landscape that instantly captivates, is what inspires John, who is also a multi-award winning artist.
His works, also realist in style, include landscapes, the sea, boats and beaches… and he will travel endlessly in his search for that ‘never to be found’ subject.
Being mainly self-taught, he loves the synergy of working in groups saying there is more to be learned on this earth than can be taken in by an individual in one lifetime. Best to share the experience!
Both Di and John have works in numerous collections, both private and corporate, within Australia and abroad and are respected artists among their peers in the Yarra Valley and in the broader palette of the art world.
The Di King Gallery is open for exhibitions throughout the year, regularly on weekends, and by appointment at other times.
It’s easy to find at 32 Maroondah Highway at the western gateway to Healesville and if the ‘open’ sign is not out, a quick call to Di or John on 5962 2557, will provide the opportunity for a visit.
Visit www.dikingartist.com.au for more information and on-line galleries.
