One of my fondest stories about Marie Hobbs occurred during an auction viewing. She quietly shared with me that, initially, she intended to paint under her maiden name. However, she was discouraged by the gallery director, who insisted she use her married name. Her husband, who was present at the time, expressed surprise, as he was unaware ... of her intention to exhibit under her maiden name.

With a glint in her eyes, she smiled and cheekily remarked, “See, after 60 years of marriage, my husband is still discovering new things about me.”

Marie’s work reflects this sense of discovery. After years of viewing her pieces, there’s always something new to uncover—whether it’s a brushstroke, a compositional element, or a subtle colour. This particular piece may have been inspired by the abundance of greenery in her garden. Rather than painting a literal interpretation, she has distilled the essence of it and spread it across the canvas with a series of bold brushstrokes in varying cool tones, with warm hints beneath. It’s a summer painting that doesn’t rely on the obvious.

Maries’s work is extensively represented in major institutions across Australia including the Art Gallery of Western Australia and the National Gallery of Victoria.