This is a painting I felt compelled to create after hearing the story of a couple destined to meet, whose love blossomed following an ice storm that struck a small town by the sea.
The storm brought relentless rain and hail, flooding the town. As the community gathered in its aftermath, he walked into the room - and there she was. He never looked back.
They spent nights sharing their stories, seeking comfort in one another, and witnessing a meteor shower together. Unbeknownst to them, the storm had created a small wetland near the sand dunes, where, for two weeks, they fell asleep to the deep, majestic symphony of hundreds of frogs calling into the night.
Each morning, after the storm had passed, a flock of white parrots would arrive in their garden, joyfully chattering, as if keeping them company. I believe nature was sending them messages of hope.
The frogs came in droves, their song a reminder of renewal, cleansing, and the beauty of a thriving ecosystem. They symbolised the need to clear our hearts and surroundings to welcome new, healthy energy.
The white parrots appeared to encourage them to embrace joy, to rediscover what life feels like in a relationship filled with love, laughter, and creativity.
When faced with life’s crossroads, ask yourself: Am I being the best version of myself? Trust your instincts and follow your heart - the frogs will come and serenade you too.
If you ever drive along the Inverloch - Cape Paterson Road in the Bass Coast Shire, winding along the sea, you’ll see the largest sand dune just above Cape Paterson. From September to December, the dunes are blanketed in tea tree flowers, their dewdrops glistening in the cool, fresh air.
The ice storm that struck Cape Paterson in mid-2019 caused destruction and devastation, yet today, the town has flourished once more - thriving beneath the sandy bushland and sparkling ocean.
For a fleeting moment, nature spoke to them, weaving its presence into their love story, and uniting the community in its wake.
