The Centenarian Woman is the eighth painting in my series, Women of Influence.
In the 1920s, a movement of women began to see themselves in a new light, challenging the societal rules that had been ingrained in them. They became dancers, workers, artists, writers, and free thinkers.
My aunty is turning 102, born into this transformative decade, and I feel it shaped the woman she became. A free thinker, independent, a dancer, joyous, and filled with a grateful, generous spirit.
Reaching 100 is a testament to a full and active life cycle – understanding the ups and downs, knowing when to walk away and when to fight for what matters, loving with an open heart, and learning to forgive when it’s broken. Centenarians see the bigger picture, never give up, and remain constantly active, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
This piece features three different species of birds, each chosen to represent joy, laughter, connection, and acceptance.Â
The scarlet honeyeater tastes the nectar from a flower, symbolising the sweetness of life and the joy of truly savouring it.Â
The lorikeet, flying in with friends, screeches with happiness, a reflection of the power of community and shared laughter.
The white egret, often seen alongside large animals like cows and horses, represents mutual benefit and coexistence. This ecological relationship reminds us that accepting each other’s differences keeps us connected and thriving. I often smile when I see these birds in paddocks, witnessing their quiet companionship.
The painting also features flowering gums and Waratah blossoms, symbolising the beauty and strength of a native Australian garden – just like a 100-year-old Australian woman blossoming in her lifetime.
The centenarians I know seem to have a second wind about them. Calm, grateful, and seeing life through loving eyes. If we remind ourselves at a younger age that life is meant to be lived, that we should be true to ourselves and cherish the moments we share with our loved ones, everything else. The things we won’t even remember in a year or two will work itself out.
They live by a simple message: love, movement, and joy.
A centenarian is a woman of incredible influence. If you know one, treasure her knowledge, wisdom, and guidance – they are invaluable.
She is the sister to Princess and the Tui Birds, Woman with Sapphire Eyes, Woman with Lotus Flowers, The Butterfly Woman, Ocean Woman, Three Baby Birds, and Woman with White Peacock Feathers.
I waited until this piece could be painted as number eight because the infinity symbol (∞) represents infinite possibilities for a full and meaningful life. The number itself holds deep symbolism.
This woman would be 100 today, born in the mid-1920s. This piece is painted with that decade in mind, using rich, bold colours: deep reds, burgundy, purples, gold, and pearls woven into her jewellery, reflecting the elegance and spirit of the era.
