'On the Wallaby Track' Artwork Response

On the Wallaby Track Response

On the Wallaby Track, created in 1896, by Frederick McCubbin is a realistic oil painting set in the bush. In the painting there is a family of three that look as though they are struggling. The family is surrounded by tree that look old but still healthy. In the background sunlight and bright colours can be seen but in the foreground and middle ground only dull colours have been used. The foreground consist of a women holding a tried and hungry looking child while leaning against tree, with a worried expression.

On the Wallaby Track is an intriguing piece of art that makes viewers think about the before and after of the family’s struggles.

The colours used in this artwork change the mood. The oranges and pinks in the background of this artwork resemble a sunrise or sunset; I think they lighten the mood and represent hope in the family’s life. The colours used in the foreground of this artwork darken the mood and make the artworks mood have more depth.

The first time I viewed this artwork I thought that the family was camping because of the blue tent in the background behind the bush. After viewing this artwork a second time, the family looks like they plan to stay longer because they don’t look happy and their clothes look tattered. The family look like they have had a big eventful week and they have been through rough times.

Overall On the Wallaby Track is a detailed piece of  art that has a deep meaning and story to tell. I recommend for everyone to visit http://www.the-athenaeum.org/ to view more of Frederick McCubbin’s amazing artwork.