Caroline Walls’ new exhibition ‘MotherLover’ at Sydney’s Jerico Contemporary is her most personal collection to date, exploring the ordinariness and extraordinariness of everyday experiences. 

The show is a significant departure from the abstract, gestural works Caroline has exhibited in the past—instead using oil paint and drawing on figuration, portraiture and still life to capture small moments in time.

‘I was interested in capturing those quiet, unseen moments in my marriage and motherhood that are often overlooked or forgotten about, but are actually imbued with tenderness and beauty,’ says the New Zealand-born, Melbourne-based artist. 

Works in ‘MotherLover’ began as photographs of Caroline’s wife before being indirectly translated onto canvas. ‘I was less interested in achieving a sense of realism within the finished pieces; instead I wanted to imbue the works with the emotions that were felt in the moments the photographs were taken,’ explains Caroline. 

The paintings’ intimate nature created with prominent, sheer brushstrokes invites the viewer to move up close to canvas and experience the works in greater detail.

While specific to her relationship, Caroline hopes the works in ‘MotherLover’ capture the universal experience and emotions associated with connection. 

‘I hope this body of work allows the viewer to take the time to reflect on their own everyday life and relationships within it—taking stock of the beauty in fleeting moments when given the chance to reflect.’

‘MotherLover’ by Caroline Walls

Thursday October 13-Saturday November 5 2022
Opening event: Thursday October 13, 6pm-8pm
In conversation event with Caroline Walls and Karina Dias Pires: Saturday November 5, 2pm-4pm

Jerico Contemporary
94 Cathedral Street, Woolloomooloo NSW