Upcoming artist-in-residence: Aaron Aryadharma Matheson

Aaron Aryadharma Matheson


Aaron Aryadharma Matheson is an artist who lives and works on Gadigal Wangal Land in the inner west of Sydney. He has been a finalist in the Mosman, Waverley and Waterhouse prizes, and awarded the Richard Ford travel award. He completed a year’s postgraduate diploma in drawing at the Prince’s Drawing School in London in 2007, and a Masters in Fine Art in 2018 at the National Art School, Sydney. Aaron is represented by Liverpool St Gallery, Sydney.


Aaron Aryadharma Matheson, 'Nursery of Stars' 2022, 

acrylic and mica pigment on canvas, 187 x 126.5 cm



" ... I paint in order to see myself more clearly, and to make sense of life. I use earth, metal, or mica pigments with acrylic binder. Applying paint to a surface, extends awareness (mind) into the liquid paint and the world beyond me. There is also an ‘archaeological’ process of rubbing back into the painting. I’m interested in the awareness and clarity that persists despite the presence of the paint, drips and slashes. ... "



Aaron Aryadharma Matheson, 'Galaxy', 2021,
acrylic paint and pale gold pigment on canvas, 187 x 152cm



" ... During my residency at Gunyah, I intend to make many small studies for two large-scale paintings: 120 x 170cm in acrylic. The process will begin with meditation and small studies which move through a process of linking up thinking and sensation, working with both mindfulness, the space, and current reflections on indigenous astronomy and quantum mechanics. ..." 

You can see more of Aaron Aryadharma Matheson's work on his website aaronmatheson.com and instagram @aryadharmamatheson


Residency report: Taryn Raffan

From the moment I arrived after dark and seeing the wooden Gunyah sign at the beginning of the drive I knew I was in for an exceptional treat on my residency. I woke to the local birds singing through their morning songs, beautiful sunshine with the occasional rainy day (which was just as special) and taking in the calming waters which incapsulated my every glance outward. I went walking and swimming most days at a nearby beach named Jimmy’s and learnt to understand the subtle variations in wind at Gunyah meant the beach was a no go. I observed the tides which are ever so present from the pier and really became interested in the intersection of the water and land meeting. It was so special to be able to look out upon a vast natural setting, especially reflecting upon my tiny apartment back in Brisbane which overlooks car parks, roofs and cement. My time at Gunyah really afforded me space, tranquility and an opportunity to look at my art making a little differently all whilst preparing for an upcoming exhibition.


Gunyah residency report, July 2023

Taryn Raffan







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