Local artist Mario Knez discovered a new love for the natural landscapes around his local Brimbank surrounds during covid lockdowns.
Now, three of his paintings are proudly hanging at the Hunt Club Community and Arts centre in Deer Park.
Escaping from the urban environment, the natural beauty of Brimbank inspired Mr Knez to mark his new found appreciation of the local scenery.
Mr Knez said he hopes his landscape paintings bring to people’s attention the beauty that sits in their backyard.
“Much needs to be celebrated of our wonderful landscape,” he said.
Mr Knez’s paintings are part of a group exhibition project titled “Re-Present” which aims to celebrate the cultural and artistic diversity in Brimbank.
Mr Knez said this is the first time having his paintings on display publicly, as previously his work has only been shown through social media.
“It is a sense of accomplishment having my paintings publicly shown on a wall and it is great to get exposure in the western suburbs,” he said.
“It’s definitely an honour to solidify what I’m doing… It makes it feel real.”
Describing his artwork as figurative, Mr Knez is a current student at the Paul Borg Art School in St Albans and has been painting since 2017.
“I have been painting for the last six years so it’s nice to be out there and recognised for the hard work I’ve put in,” he said.
The community is welcome to visit the free exhibition at the Hunt Club Community and Arts Centre until Thursday, August 31.
Hannah Hammoud
