"Raise Your Own" art installation

It's been so long since I did any art (other than writing books for Allen and Unwin, and illustrating them, which is definitely a form of art - but a commissioned one, so it counts as work), that I have gotten out of the habit. Trying to find the right headspace seemed impossible. I've wanted to make this piece for over a year, and so I wouldn't forget about it, I had a drawing tacked to the stairs, showing how it should go, complete with instructions for what colour to paint each item. I'd even assembled a kit, back when I did the drawing, of the various components I planned to use.

I sat down and got started, by doing the easiest thing: paint house black. One thing led to another and by the end of the day I was fantastically inspired - I'd gone into that special, magical headspace where I felt I could invent anything. My sister, Cal, came over half way through the day and worked with me. She made the fish, altered and painted the chook on the roof, and made gorgeous tiles for the roof of the house.

This whole piece represents my dreams - I hope one day to be able to raise my own meat, fish and honey as well as the vegies and fruit I grow now.

I'm really pleased with it - I think it looks beautiful.