I’m delighted to share that my painting, The Mists Within, has been awarded Runner Up in the Traditional Professional category of the Watercolour Society of Queensland's 2025 Annual Exhibition.

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The judges offered the following reflections on the piece:

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“The artwork commands attention through its powerful composition, where the eye is naturally drawn to a compelling focal point shaped by the interplay of cool and warm hues. The contrast between icy blues and sunlit ambers creates a dynamic tension that energises the piece without overwhelming its serenity. A soft, calm background gently cushions the scene, allowing the mid-ground to emerge with intricate detail and quiet authority. The artist's treatment of the trees is particularly masterful — each stroke feels deliberate, yet free, capturing both the structure and spirit of nature. This variety in brushwork, often difficult to balance, lends the foliage a sense of realism that feels spontaneous and alive. The layering of textures and tones in the mid-ground adds depth, inviting the viewer to linger and explore. Light is used not just to illuminate, but to sculpt the atmosphere, casting subtle shadows that whisper of hidden stories. There's a quiet mystery embedded in the mood — something just beyond reach, waiting to be discovered. The overall ambience evokes curiosity, as if the scene is part of a larger narrative unfolding just outside the frame. It's a work that doesn't just depict a landscape — it breathes it into being.”

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I’m honoured by this recognition, and grateful to the Watercolour Society of Queensland for continuing to provide such a vibrant space for artists to share their work.

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Thank you to everyone who has supported me on this creative journey.

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— Bruce