Ralph Wilson (b.1955, Brisbane) is a Brisbane based artist well recognised for his practice that focuses on depicting the coastal landscape and waters of south-east Queensland and northern NSW. Wilson’s practice begins with careful observation, often from the water, watching the way weather, tide and light can alter the landscape at the edge of the sea.
Like many of his peers, Wilson originally studied architecture, studying at the University of Queensland in the early 1970s before interrupting his studies to follow the course of his natural inclination, painting. In 1983 the artist received the Camberwell Rotary Travelling Scholarship, allowing him the opportunity to travel and work abroad. Wilson made his way to London, Paris, and finally New York, all the while visiting art museums and galleries. This experience was later augmented by further travels in the mid-1980s and 1990 to Italy.
In an exhibiting career spanning over forty years Wilson has held regular solo exhibitions around Australia since the mid-1970s.
Wilson’s work is represented in a range of collections including Artbank, Sydney; Museum of Brisbane, Brisbane; QUT Art Museum, Brisbane; Suncorp, Brisbane; and The Brisbane Club, Brisbane.
Image: Ralph Wilson Blue, 2021, oil on board, 121 x 90cm