Another question about the kangaroo painting ‘Young & Free’:

Why the green background? and Why does the kangaroo have gloves around it’s neck?

Green and gold are the sporting colours of the Australian Commonwealth Games and Olympic Team. They represent wattle, Australia’s floral emblem, green of the leaves, gold of the flowers.

The boxing kangaroo flag is often displayed at any sporting event that Australia is participating in. It is a much loved symbol for many Australians.

I had the idea for the painting before I researched the symbolism. An elevated, life-size solid gold kangaroo with diamond eyes, claws and genitals, with diamond boxing gloves dangling around it’s neck, connected by a heavy gold industrial chain, not a jewellery chain. The kangaroo is on a green background and the gold body of the kangaroo reflects me.

The gloves are off. The kangaroo is in a ‘neutral’ pose, standing tall, looking away from the audience towards the distance. His powerful body is in a state of ‘readiness’ - neutral, relaxed, but ready to pounce if needed. He wears them as a symbol of his strength. A casual ‘I’m already powerful, but I can be more so if needed.’

The heavy chain that connects the gloves appears to dull the illusion of power, instead making the gloves look like a burden. That’s my intention at least!

Around 1:40 you can see them fight, but the posturing beforehand is fascinating.