Annie Hawkins Original Artwork

For Annie Hawkins, art has been a lifelong passion. Largely self-taught, she began painting with acrylics at just ten years old before stepping away from her practice while raising her family. Around fifteen years ago, Annie returned to painting, this time working predominantly with oils, and rediscovered a creative outlet that has since become an essential part of her life.

Inspired by Australia's expansive rural landscapes and coastlines, Annie's works explore the quiet beauty found in open spaces, changing weather and the subtle character of isolated cottages and weathered buildings. Rather than capturing every detail of a scene, she focuses on its atmosphere, the quality of light and the emotions a place evokes. This thoughtful approach has shaped her contemporary realist style, defined by muted, natural colour palettes, simplified compositions and a strong sense of calm.

Much of Annie's inspiration comes from travelling through regional Australia, where she is drawn to the places many people pass without a second glance, winding country roads, distant hills, open paddocks and ageing farmhouses. Early experiences exploring the bush and farmland alongside her grandparents instilled a lifelong appreciation for nature, and those memories continue to influence her work today. The ever-changing Australian landscape remains her greatest teacher, offering endless moments of beauty, solitude and reflection.

Guided by a belief that simplicity can often be the most powerful form of expression, Annie creates paintings that celebrate atmosphere over detail. Through restrained compositions and luminous light, she invites viewers to slow down, reflect and form their own personal connection with the landscape.

Above all, Annie hopes her works create a sense of peace. Whether they evoke nostalgia, stillness or quiet contemplation, her paintings offer a place for the eye to rest and the mind to wander, allowing each viewer to discover their own memories and meaning within the landscapes.