To There and Back - Oil Paintings by Ken Bonner

A new perspective on an old land

A return to the Fleurieu Peninsula has inspired artist Ken Bonner afresh. After living for some time in Santa Fe, New Mexico, he and his wife Patricia followed their hearts and came home to Australia.

The move has enabled Ken to enjoy a new creative outlook and he is inspired by the local scenery, energy and images here in South Australia.

It’s usual for artists encountering a landscape afresh to experience a new burst of vigour and inspiration as the colours and landscapes surrounding them naturally impacts their work.

This is especially true for Ken who at the beginning of his career enjoyed a love affair with the landscapes and wildlife of South Africa; his passion for the land there was so strong that it kick-started his career.

After moving to Mexico in 2006 to be close to his future wife Patricia, Ken enjoyed the vivid scenery and lifestyle of La Paz, Baja Sur and it was during his time there that he began to paint seriously.

Ken produced many commissions during this period and also exhibited exclusively at Tres Virgenes Gallery in the centre of La Paz.

By 2012, Ken and Patricia were on the move again and this time settled in Santa Fe where again, inspired by the famously intriguing light there, Ken produced many large-scale pieces.

Elemental Dance - Dawn Greeting by Ken Bonner

Coming home again

Ken Bonner’s approach is distinct and unique, his style has been described as "impressionistic realism” and much of his work is on a large scale although some smaller canvases are included in this new exhibition.

Ken Bonner at work in his studio

With a process that’s largely instinctive, ken begins with a vision; he allows the concept of each piece to take on its own life, growing organically. The aim is to stimulate and please the eye through composition and colour impact. The vivid colours of his landscapes, seascapes and dreamlike abstracts are arresting and at the same time relaxing and thought-provoking.

Now back in South Australia, Ken Bonner’s reputation as an artist continues to grow and evolve; his exhibition will open at Fleurieu Arthouse on Saturday, January 14th at 2.00pm.

Find us at 202 Main Road, McLaren Vale.

Written by Lindsay Nightingale