Balmain East Waterfront

Acrylic on stretched canvas, ready to hang.

Signed on the front.

In my acrylic on canvas piece, I sought to capture the essence of the vibrant waterfront in Balmain East, a view that caught my eye during a ferry ride on the Parramatta River. I meticulously painted a row of charming houses, each with its own distinct colour scheme and architectural character, set against the backdrop of verdant greenery and a brilliantly blue sky. The houses’ hues—ranging from deep blues and vivacious greens to warm reds and sunny yellows—beckon the onlooker into a peaceful yet spirited snapshot of Sydney’s renowned harbour life.

I used a rich palette of greens to convey the lushness at the water’s edge, while the purple blooms of a Jacaranda tree offer a cool tonal contrast. The placid water in the foreground mirrors the sky, providing a tranquil foundation for the scene and guiding the viewer’s gaze from the docked boats on one side to the enchanting architectural features on the other.

With this work, I aimed not only to showcase the visual allure of Balmain East’s colourful abodes but also to capture a slice of Sydney’s daily rhythm, marrying the urban environment with the area’s natural splendour. This scene is a personal recollection, and I hope it imparts a sense of warmth and welcome that resonates with those who are familiar with this view, as well as those who yearn to visit such a picturesque and serene locale.