Daniel Rivers - Under Sandstone Skies
Daniel Rivers, born in Muswellbrook, is an architect and artist, now based on Dharawal Country. After completing his architectural studies at the University of Newcastle, he moved to Thirroul, where the dramatic landscapes of the Illawara escarpment have become a central inspiration. Rivers’ work aims to capture the spirit of place, continually searching for a deeper connection with the Australian landscape.
Working primarily with soft pastels, Rivers applies scraping and blending techniques to swiftly establish composition and colour arrangement, later refining the works with intricate marks. His experimentation with pastels yields both loose yet finely detailed drawings and paintings.
His latest collection, “Under Sandstone Skies,” invites audiences to immerse themselves in his experience of residing under towering cliffs and open skies, observing the ever shifting interplay of light, colour and distinct weather phenomena. From the glow of a solitary cloud illuminated by the morning sun to the dynamic shadows cast by drifting clouds, Rivers’ work shares his connection to these moments of transient beauty.