Experience Baden Croft’s ‘Upstream’, his debut solo exhibition. Michael Reid Southern Highlands (MRSH) invites you to visit the exhibition held on the top floor of the gallery.
This captivating collection showcases the artist’s deep connection with the Australian bush, expressed through vibrant landscapes and a single mesmerizing floral study.
Baden Croft’s ‘Upstream’ artworks are filled with thick, dynamic brushstrokes, capture the raw beauty of Australia’s sun-drenched landscapes. His large canvases depict winding river bends and the twisted trunks of trees with a sense of freedom and energy, as if the artist himself was moving in rhythm with the land.
The way he pushes his subjects to the edges of the frame, distorting and elongating forms, invites viewers to experience nature from a fresh perspective.
Croft’s style evokes the spirit of legendary Australian artist Brett Whiteley. Much like Whiteley, Croft prioritizes artistic expression over strict geographical accuracy. His paintings radiate spontaneity, with bold graphic elements layered over earthy tones, reminding one of Whiteley’s signature brush-and-ink techniques.
Yet, Croft’s true focus lies in capturing the sensory experience of the wild—the feeling of immersion in Australia’s rugged landscapes. His rapid, energetic brushwork reflects the ever-changing natural world, from the wind rustling through the trees to the rush of water along a riverbank.
Living on the Mornington Peninsula, Croft draws inspiration from the rhythm of the ocean, where mornings spent surfing feed into his artistic practice. His afternoons are dedicated to Onshore Studios , a vibrant creative hub where he paints alongside other artists, translating the essence of the Australian bush and coastline into each textured, tactile stroke.
‘Upstream’ runs from 15 August to 29 September 2024. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in Baden Croft’s vivid portrayal of Australia’s natural beauty.
For more on Baden Croft’s ‘Upstream’ exhibition, visit Michael Reid Southern Highlands
