The energy and vitality of Virginia’s work stems from both a love of vibrant colour and a deep-rooted passion for country life.
In her choice of subject, she emphasises the raw energy of horse racing, the intense lightscape of the rural outdoors, and exaggerates the real tones of still-life to dynamic visual effect. Virginia’s vigorous brushwork, and bold composition reflect a natural confidence.
Raised on a sheep and cattle property near Heathcote, in central Victoria, Virginia has been madly sketching since she could hold a pencil. Her father owned racehorses, which left an indelible impression on Virginia and continues to inspire her work to this day. As with so many budding artists, her enthusiasm to train at tertiary level was tempered by parental advice – “have something to fall back on”. Good sound advice, which resulted in a nursing career – but the desire to paint was overwhelming.
“I now live on a sheep property in Western Victoria, with my husband David Mercer. It is fantastic returning to the land, and being surrounded and inspired by the animals as I go on my daily walks. Sheep, like people, have personalities, which I love to capture on canvas with explosive colour. Such fun!
Virginia has won several art awards in Victoria and New South Wales and was a finalist in the FIP World Polo Championship Art Exhibition, October 2017.
Commissions welcome.