Watershed moment

Artist Bruce Griffiths is a shining example that it's never too late to follow your dreams.

Despite growing up in a very creative and artistic family, Bruce never felt a calling to the canvas - instead, a love of football and fishing were more than enough to fill his days.

For a few good decades at least.

The year was 2002, when this self-confessed "late bloomer" casually mentioned to his wife that he would like to paint.

She said: "Why don't you" and it lit a creative spark that still burns brightly today.

Largely self-taught, Bruce consumed everything at his disposal - books, workshops and sharing the vast experience and knowledge of fellow artists and mentors.

And, of course, perfecting his craft through much trial and error.

"If my brush goes its own way, it's because it was meant to be," Bruce explains.

"There are no mistakes in watercolour. If you think like that, you will loosen up when you paint.

"If you stuff it up, and I have done plenty of times, it is only paper - it's not a sheep station."

It's very much a hands-on learning curve that will continue until his final days, because Bruce is adamant that you "should forever be challenging yourself and, as a result, you'll be forever learning".

His influences have come from prolific and talented artists such as Robert Wade OAM, Greg Allen, Dave Taylor and Joseph Zbukvic.

Bruce also believes attending workshops has taken him to a new level and he now takes great satisfaction conducting his own classes - talking to young artists and helping guide their creative journey.

In the past, Bruce would argue that he worked in construction and did a little art on the side.

He chuckles when he admits that that has now flipped, and he "does art with a little construction on the side".

But, that cross-over of work and passion has allowed Bruce a deep appreciation of architecture - specifically capturing the character and form that leaps from the page.

As a watercolourist, Bruce creates landscapes and seascapes; as well as marine and animal life, limited portraits and detail studies.

"I love it all," he declares.

Unapologetically, he says he wants to harness "all the elements of a great watercolour" - tone, mood, atmosphere, light, balance, colour and shapes - ultimately delivering a "marriage of it all".

"I want people viewing my art to walk into the painting and not want to leave," he said.

"I want them to be immersed in the story I'm telling."

Next major project:

"There is a momentum, a time when all factors fall into place and I am excited about my move to Toowoomba heartland and the time to make my mark as an artist in this ever-changing region," Bruce said.

"Particularly, I'm excited as being a selected artist for Instudio Art Trail on August 17 and 18 at The Woods, Ravensbourne.

"It will be a great weekend."

As well as this, Bruce says there will be more solo exhibitions to come, as well as further art demonstrations, workshops and tuition.

"This year, I have commenced travelling workshops and I am reaching out to art groups and selected school opportunities here and intrastate," he said.

"I see that as a major focus over the coming years. Giving back what art has given me."

For more information on Bruce's work, upcoming exhibitions and art classes be sure to visit www.brucegriffithswatercolours.com.au or email brucegriffiths@yahoo.com.au