The Olgas for Ernest Giles 1985

Brett Whiteley made this painting, "The Olgas for Ernest Giles," using fluid brushstrokes and a palette that pops with earthy reds against a bright blue sky. The texture in this piece is really something; you can almost feel the smoothness of the sky against the rough, almost sculptural forms of the Olgas. The paint isn't overly thick, but Whiteley uses it to create a real sense of volume and presence. Look at those thin, elegant lines that loop around the rock formations. They're like thoughts or connections, tying the landscape together. The little bird perched on one of the rocks – it's a tiny detail, but it brings the whole scene to life. Whiteley’s work often has this mix of grand landscapes and intimate, personal touches. Maybe it’s just me, but this painting makes me think a little of Fred Williams, another painter who could find endless fascination in the Australian landscape. Art, like a good conversation, just keeps going, doesn't it? It leaves you with more questions than answers, and that's the beauty of it.