John Scott
For me, everything is a cosmic dance, constantly unfolding from a source. That source is everywhere and nowhere, manifesting constantly and simultaneously. My job is to hold it still long enough in my mind to understand the mystery of its origin, void of labels.

Nude as Landscape

I describe this recent body of works as nouveau symbolic. By combining layers of imagery, stories, research and beliefs I try to create multiple meanings. My work contains a variety of subject matter and combines detail and complex technical execution with an overall balance of simplicity.

This series of works came to me after years of travel and absorbing indigenous views that are similar throughout the world. These views correlate to the modern western Gaia theory, which considers the whole world or biosphere as a living organism and an entity within its own right. Australia, if not the world, is in the worst drought in modern history, a poignant reminder of the fragility of our environment. There is enough scientific evidence now to prove that immense damage has and will keep on occurring whilst we remain ignorant of the many causalities. Resources are finite. The interconnectedness of humans, animals, plant life and the elements are undeniable on deeper reflection. We have a choice whether to dominate and exploit the earth, or we can develop eco-friendly systems, which enable us to re-integrate with the earth’s natural rhythms and cycles. Such a move would ultimately lead to the healing of mother earth and ultimately us.

Science and Mythology are now merging as we find striking similarities between the two. My works seek to source the intrinsic meaning and inner relationship between this “external” world and ourselves. In this world of constant flux and change, I see my role as an artist as one of exploring the intimate aspects as opposed to the dominant role of relationships between humans and their environment.

I have recently chosen the image of the nude as a metaphor, or archetypal image of our landscape. Usually faceless, my archetypal images are not to be confused with the female gender role, therefore giving the image a symbolic representation. The images entice us into the land, invoking an intimate partnership, urging us to listen to more subtle signs, enabling us to be guided by her.

I allow each painting to “talk” to me after going “bush” for a while, which is imperative to just “being” and listening. I meditate on plants and situations for hours, depending on circumstances. This process allows me to free up my western conditioned responses. Indigenous Aboriginals have been instrumental in reawakening my love for this land via walks and stories.

JOHN SCOTT

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