Nocturne, Templestowe 1896

David Davies painted "Nocturne, Templestowe", capturing a landscape in what appears to be the quiet moments of twilight. Davies, an Australian artist, was deeply influenced by the Heidelberg School, a movement that sought to establish a distinct Australian identity through art. In "Nocturne, Templestowe," Davies employs a subdued palette, reflecting the cultural emphasis on nature as both a source of national identity and spiritual solace. The tranquil scene could be seen as a response to the rapid urbanization and industrialization of the late 19th century. It evokes a sense of longing for an untouched, pastoral past. The painting's muted tones and soft brushwork encourage a contemplative viewing experience. Davies once said that he aimed to "capture the fleeting beauty of the Australian landscape". This landscape is a construction, tied to colonial narratives of ownership and belonging. By painting the land, Davies participates in defining who gets to claim Australia as home. In viewing this work, we might consider whose stories are told and whose are left out of this national vision.