Born and educated in Tasmania, McWilliams’ distinctive and unique work has been featured in several national exhibitions and has been included in numerous art awards, including the Wynne Prize for Landscape in 2010 and 2008; winner of the inaugural John Glover Award in 2004, as well as being a finalist in 2006 (honourable mention), 2008 and 2010; and the Waterhouse Natural History Art Prize 2008 and 2005, awarded by the South Australian Museum. His paintings, on canvas, wooden panels and on furniture pieces, are of immediate appeal with their meticulous observation of the natural world and remarkable technical skill in depicting detailed landscapes populated by personable animals, many known to the artist from his own pets to neighbouring farms to the wilds. There is also an underlying humour or irony to much of his work, which often reveals a more serious environmental message.
