Mark Lawrence: Rural Gum Tree Landscapes

Workshop is to paint iconic Gum tree scenes in an impressionistic to realistic style.

This immersive two-day workshop (with a Saturday-only option) invites artists of all levels to explore the rugged elegance of Australia’s gum tree landscapes through pastel. Inspired by the timeless beauty found in the works of Hans Heysen and modern masters like John Wilson and Kathy Ellem, the workshop shifts focus from oils to pastels—demonstrating how this rich, versatile medium can beautifully render the colours, light, and textures unique to our native flora.

The thing is, the great paintings have mostly been created in oils. This workshop is about exploring how pastels are no less valuable in creating such works. We’ll explore the typical colours of gum trees found in the fertile southern regions, as well as those in the drier landscapes.

Then, using our knowledge of the medium and developing our artistic skills, there’s no reason why these lovely eucalypt paintings can’t be accomplished in pastels.

Day 1: Understanding the Eucalypt

We’ll dive into the anatomy and colour of gum trees while getting to know the papers and pastels you'll be using—and why they're important in achieving the best results. The workshop will build your confidence with pastel techniques, focusing on layering, blending, and capturing the sculptural beauty of trunks and branches. Everyone will work from the same supplied reference photo for the first day.

We’ll sketch out the broad shapes with willow charcoal, paying attention to compositional guidelines and focal points. Then we’ll fill the paper with background and have fun with the gum tree as the focus, applying pastel earthy greens, sun-warmed greys, and soft ochres that define both fertile southern forests and sun-parched dry northern regions. You’ll finish by applying details and highlights.

Day 2: Your Own Landscape

Bring your own rural gum tree reference photos or use the one supplied. You’ll focus on composing and completing a finished artwork featuring a majestic eucalypt set within a classic rural Australian landscape. The emphasis will be on composition, atmosphere, aerial perspective, tone, colour, and capturing that rugged beauty that draws us to gum tree trunks and branches. Each participant will leave with a uniquely personal gum tree scene.

The workshop is led by Mark, whose connection to the Australian environment is reflected in his diverse body of work. His friendly, encouraging style ensures plenty of opportunities for one-on-one guidance throughout the workshop.

Coffee, tea and morning tea are provided. There is a kitchen with a hot water urn, fridge and microwave, so you can bring your own lunch or walk 100 metres to a shopping centre at Coorparoo where lunch options are available to purchase.

Materials List:

Tutor Information:

Mark’s artistic journey began in his teenage years under the inspiration of a great art teacher. However, it wasn't until 2000 that he truly dedicated himself to painting, regularly participating in and winning prizes at the Ipswich Show.

 In 2012, he attended a workshop with Tricia Reust which marked the beginning of his exploration into pastels. He joined the Pastel Society of Australia (PSA) and had the privilege of learning from many PSA Master Pastellists, forming lasting friendships along the way. In 2021, with the support and encouragement of his mentor Margaret Turner, Mark achieved the esteemed status of Accomplished Pastellist with the PSA.

His work spans various genres, embracing the vibrant and beautiful aspects of landscapes and seascapes to portraits, figures in landscapes, flora, and the occasional still life and even abstract/contemporary pieces. His paintings are a celebration of colour and form.

Mark’s artwork is gaining increased recognition from collectors through prizes including at the Brisbane Ekka. He has recently begun sharing his knowledge and techniques through conducting workshops as he continues to create and share his passion for art with a growing audience.