Hello everyone , hope this finds all well in your part of the world.
I do hold a soft spot for a red tartan and this little tartan top is an old favourite of mine and has over the years had many appearances on the blog. I found it at a secondhand shop here for very few dollars probably ten years ago. I have worn it over a black knit in Winter and it is light enough for a cooler Summer day.
I paired the top with another old favourite , my much loved and worn Moyuru black skirt . I added a red vintage cap , mainly to hide my two tone hair, red and black heart earrings bought at a craft market in Melbourne , Gucci sunnies , red and black bangles and red Trippen shoes.
Sometimes its fun looking back to previous blog posts and I found this one from August 2017. I still have everything I am wearing here including the hat from Tasmanian milliner , Susan McArthur . Boring to some but I enjoy keeping and wearing the things I love regardless of how long they have been in the wardrobe. Still thinking my hair may well go back to this style and colour again.
As I type this I am reflecting on the many changes in my life since 2017. I have changed jobs , then retired , enjoyed travelling again , become a grandmother to two little boys , met new people , enjoyed new places and experiences , entered the health care system and had a cancer diagnosis followed by surgery and chemotherapy.
The one thing time has taught me is that some days simply just being is enough .
Last week I met up with my dear friend Janet for our usual tea and chat . It was a rather warm day so instead of our usual long walk we decided to visit the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery to view an exhibition by local artist Michael McWilliams . This was the first ever public exhibition of his work and the exhibition was titled “The Protaganist”. McWilliams work is highly recognised with his quirky and whimsical landscapes , depicting wildlife and domestic and feral species in Tasmanian bushland , farmyards , gardens and houses.
It was the artist’s attention to detail , especially in the native animals he depicts that has drawn critical acclaim, both in Australia and overseas.
Much of the artists later work makes reference to the harm done to our natural environment by human activity and the introduction of other animal species . This one focuses on the harm done to our native birds by feral cats.
I really wish I had made note of the title of this one as I do find it very clever . At present there is much debate on the damage done here by the introduction of mass scale salmon farming.
Unfortunately , this didn’t photograph as well as I had hoped but it does give an idea of the scope of subjects of the exhibition.
Postscript : The first part of this somewhat reflective post was written this morning prior to my follow up visit with my oncologist . I am pleased to report that all is well and he doesn’t need to see me until next February. To say I am pleased is an understatement.
Until next time , thanks for reading .
Hi Jill,
What wonderful news about your oncology report – it would have been such a relief for you.!
You look great in your outfit and I love the way you’ve styled it.
I also love the art exhibition.
Michael McWilliams is a very talented artist indeed – thanks for sharing.
Take care X
Author
Thank you so very much Eva , I was very relieved . Ido enjoy the tartan and hope to find another piece .
The exhibition was a true reflection of the artist and our state through his eyes.
Thanks for introducing me to Michael McWilliams work, Jill! I love his style and the message behind his work.
You look fabulous both now and in your old photo. Those of us who buy clothes because we love them and not to keep up with some silly trend can hold onto and enjoy our garments and accessories for years.
Author
It was my pleasure to share the work of Michael Mc Williams and a glimpse of our state through his eyes.
Totally agree Vix , when you buy what you love and it reflects you , our pieces become timeless .
First of all, that is wonderful news from your oncologist! You must hold your breath every time. Second, you are always stunning in your fabulous outfits! I’m not sure anyone else could do them justice. Third (I’m on a roll), I can see why you want to grow your hair out…that Susan MacArthur hat is amazing and probably does have the same effect on shorter hair. Last, I’ve never heard of this artist, but his work is breathtaking. Thank you for sharing it.
https://marshainthemiddle.com/
Author
Thank you so very much Marsha , to say I was relieved is an understatement. Glad you can see why I have missed wearing my hats , especially this red one , it didn’t work with the short hair.
The artist is very talented and his work reflects our state beautifully.
Hi Jill,
So pleased to read that all is well healthwise (it’s so wonderful when you’re told to make an appointment
for 12 months time!). Your attitude that “simply just being is enough” and loving and wearing those fabulous
clothes of yours, so many stories in them and never boring is the perfect prescription for a wholesome life.
Wishing you continued good health, wonderful adventures and love,
Elizabeth.
Author
Thank you so very much Elizabeth , I know you fully understand about the significance of the 12 month appointment. I do think we spend so much of our lives having to be busy that it does take time to learn to simply be. Your good wishes are most appreciated . xxx
Another one of your fabulous and quirky outfits, Jill. I’m absolutely swooning over that red tartan top!
What a talented artist Michael McWilliams is. Thank you for the introduction and letting me tag along to this amazing exhibition! xxx
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Thank you so very much Ann . The tartan top is an oldie but one I enjoy wearing. Glad you enjoyed a peek at the work of our local artist , Michael Mc Williams and his take on Tasmania.