What she would tell me
This painting is a tribute to our magnificent old gum trees and the quiet wisdom they carry.
Even after their seasons of growth have passed, these trees continue to give. Their hollows become homes, their fallen branches create new life, and their presence reminds us that our greatest impact is often found in what we leave behind.
While painting this piece, I found myself thinking about my Pop and his quiet presence, love of the farm and cheeky sense of humour. I also found myself wondering what my own 90-year-old self might say if she could return for just fifteen minutes.
Would she rush through another sleepless night? Or would she notice the small hands wrapped around hers, grateful simply to be here?
That thought became the heart of this painting.
Like these old gum trees, I hope to grow into someone who continues to give long after my busiest seasons have passed. Someone who embraces life with gratitude, courage, curiosity, and love.
What She Would Tell Me is a reminder that growing old is a privilege, that every ordinary moment is part of the legacy we are creating, and that the life we are living today is one our future selves may one day wish they could return to.
Plus the 6 mini paintings that inspired this piece will also be available through this collection.
Click here to go back to view the Life Through Trees Series so far
Life Through Trees Collection coming November 2026
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Head back to the Life Through Trees Collection Page so far here
We would like to acknowledge the Wathaurong people of the Kulin Nations as the Traditional Owners of the land that this work was created upon and the Tradition Owners of the lands that inspire each piece of this series and pay our respect to Elders both past and present.