Artist statement

"My work takes as its reference observations both large and small, profound and whimsical. I document the many small moments that fill the narrative of a life, as well as continuing to reference events that shape our understanding of this often bewildering world. These small watercolours are rendered directly onto handmade paper with no under-drawing. Each one evolves over the course of a single day, beginning in the early morning and revisited many times to apply layers of transparent pigment."

About the artist

Whether through landscape, portraiture or small watercolours, Margaret Ackland has been keenly observing and recording traces of human experience for more than 35 years. Drawing on her own observations of the world sourced from newspaper clippings, online media and the comings and goings of her own daily life, Ackland's images quietly shine light on ephemeral moments, both personal and political. What emerges from her delicate, often humorous and always sensitive small-scale paintings encompasses a whole, worldly and fully relatable experience. As a suite, they offer a glimpse into the quiet reception of the everyday, interspersed with pivotal events from world politics.

Flinders Lane Gallery/FLG

FLG is a contemporary art gallery located on Level 1 of the Nicholas Building. The gallery has been championing the practices of emerging, mid-career and established Australian artists since its inception in 1989.

Instagram: @flinderslanegallery
Website: flg.com.au

Photography by Anne-Marie De Boni