The art of Rene Magritte has often influenced Ross Watson’s art, which is in evidence in this dramatic and gently surreal new painting. Featuring one of the artist’s favourite muses, Nathan Collett, who steadies his surfboard flanked by two Queen’s Guards, immaculate in their exquisitely detailed uniforms. Snow capped mountains tower above an aqua blue lake, which Watson recently visited in New Zealand provides a stunning backdrop to the sunlit scene.
We are accustomed to only ever seeing Queens Guards outside the Royal palaces, yet here we are offered a view of them in a surprising setting. Their presence reminds us the naked surfer inhabits an entirely different world, and we consider his carefree and solitary life in contrast to his formal, disciplined and regimented counterparts - echoing the contrasting English and Australian lifestyles which the artist has moved between since he first visited London almost forty years ago.
A black surfboard ankle cord snakes it’s way around Nathan, echoing the black piping in the immaculate and impressive guards tunics. His pose evokes athletic strength and speed, and is both attractive and erotic in a natural unaffected way.
"I have been a proud collector of Ross' paintings for many years. His art is astounding in its beauty, emotion, and reverence for our humanity and the world we live in. His attention to the smallest details, and use of light, dark and colour, rivals art's greatest masters." James J. O'Donnell, Patron, art collector, NYC
"We are loving our new acquisition and we know that 'Nathan, view to Florence' will bring us endless years of joy. Thanks for sharing your talent. We love your work so keep it up!" Paul Zahra and Duncan Peerman, Sydney
"As avid art collectors we are very proud to have Ross' stunningly handsome work in our collection. His art brings us great joy and we love to share his work with our friends and visitors. We were absolutely thrilled to recently add 'Two Soldiers' to our collection." Christopher Cosier & Chris Webber, Sydney
"I purchased the original painting 10 years ago at your gallery during Mardi Gras and it has given me enormous pleasure ever since. I remember standing in the gallery for a couple of hours wondering if I should buy it. I have never regretted that decision." Jon Anderson and Lance Johnson, Palm Springs
"Your art hanging around our home provides us with such pleasure, and we can’t wait for A-Bay to join the Ross Watson family." Haydon Elliot and Greg Moses, Melbourne
