22/02/2025
Sunset at Wheatfield: A Dry Pastel Exploration
Inspired by expressive painting, 'Sunset at Wheatfield' (1888) by Vincent Van Gogh, our recent dry pastel workshop invited residents to capture the golden essence of a setting sun over an expansive wheatfield.
The sky melted into a sea of gold, blending seamlessly with the wheat below. As residents closed their eyes, they could almost feel the gentle breeze swaying through the fields, the tips of the wheat brushing softly against their hands. Through experimentation with dry pastels, they sought to replicate the glowing warmth of the sun casting its final light across the landscape.
Layer by layer, residents followed guided steps to lay down colours, bringing depth and vibrancy to their compositions. The wheat heads, silhouetted against the dusky sky, drifted in the breeze, while the last embers of sunlight painted the fields with soft rose hues. Beyond technique, this exercise evoked deep memories—many residents, having grown up in the North-East of Victoria, found comfort in the familiar sight of wheatfields ready for harvest after a season of labour.
This workshop was not only about technique but also about connection—both to art and to personal experiences. Residents embraced expressive mark-making, layering shades to create movement and emotion in their work. As they shared their progress, encouragement and nostalgia filled the room, reinforcing the therapeutic power of creative expression.
The session embodied the beauty of exploration and the joy of capturing nature’s fleeting moments. We look forward to continuing our artistic journey together, finding inspiration in the world around us.
Much gratitude and thanks to the Staff and residents @ the Mercy Place.
