Brian Connolly
The Golden Flowers of Awakening , 2023
Acrylic, Oil, Spray Paint & Gold Pigment on Canvas
Height 198 cm x Width 122 cm
Artwork is stretched and ready to hang & comes with certificate of authenticity
Painted by the artist upon their return from a profound four-day silent retreat nestled within the lush forests of Bali, this artwork beckons us to dive into our internal garden. Symbolising this garden is a self-portrait, wherein a multifaceted muse adorns golden wings and a butterfly face. It signifies transformation, taking flight, and surrendering to the dance of life. Painted in gentle hues of pink, the piece captures the enchantment of turning inward, evading the confines of the mind, and embracing the body to discover the state of flow. It embodies the notion of awakening the inner blossoms to ignite a radiant golden light.
Artist Bio: Brian Connolly is an artist based in Bundjalung (Byron Bay). Connolly’s works are characterised by etherealism and psychedelia which serve as vehicles to explore central themes of inner growth and transformation. His adoration for incorporating the teachings of nature is artfully intertwined into his multi-faceted paintings.
In addition to canvas paintings, the artist has found interest in exploring various mediums including fashion, ceramics, furniture, and mural painting. His distinctive mural works, including those commissioned for the acclaimed hair and beauty salon Edwards & Co, can be spotted in numerous locations across Australia. These murals have garnered significant media attention and have led to the creation of over 30 murals throughout the country, with recent installations including the flagship Mecca cosmetics store in Sydney CBD. His artistic creations have also adorned an exclusive Ink Gin bottle, been commissioned by boutique hotels, restaurants, homeware stores, and private residences. Notably, he has collaborated with The Pullman Hotel Hyde Park in Sydney, overseeing a gallery space within their lobby. The artist has showcased his works in various group exhibitions, with representation from esteemed galleries like Purple Noon Gallery, Thom Gallery, and Forman Art. Most recently, Connolly had a successful solo exhibition at Maunsell Wickes Gallery in Paddington, Sydney. He has collectors both nationally and internationally.