Artist’s Statement

Julian L.W. Brown, born in Northern Australia in 1991, was inspired to paint *Iridescent* after four years of diving for Paspaley in Broome and Darwin. The word iridescent describes the luminous colours that change when viewed from different angles, which is Julian’s unique perspective on the movement and colour of the underwater world.

“It has taken me into a world of unexpected patterns and shapes set free by nature,” he explains. “Being under water, its rhythm is my world. While drift diving collecting shells on the lines in Broome, I came across the painted crayfish – a beautiful creature that has stayed with me and inspired my art.”

“When I began painting these works, I was unsure of what to expect, but the design of the crayfish and its uniqueness became the inspiration for the placement of the lines.”

“When diving for pearls, the lines are rust and pearl-coloured, and with pearl shells an underwater cultivated world also grows and reflects light.”

“Painting has become a very therapeutic activity for me.”

Julian has been surrounded by renowned artists who have revealed to him the connection between self, land, song and art, including Prince of Wales, Angelina George and the Joshua sisters, Regina Wilson and the artists from Peppimenarti. His most important influence is his aunty Sarah Nelson.

Julian’s late grandmother, Rose Colless, was a senior Indigenous woman from Yarrabah, near Cairns, North Queensland. His great grandfather, Chick King, and Nanna Mavis are also artists on his mother’s side.

Julian was born in the Top End and coastal regions of Australia. After studying marine biology, he began diving for Paspaley in Broome and Darwin. This experience broadened his perspective and fostered his passion for underwater exploration, particularly the interplay of light on coral reefs and oyster beds. This fascination inspired his collection of paintings.

Julian’s passion for underwater exploration has also been influenced by a rich love of travel encompassing Europe, Asia and South America.

**2012 Bachelor of Science (Marine Biology), Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia**