Joyce Hatchett | Swaggie & His Mate

Even though I was born in Scotland, I have always loved the Australian bush and the old Aussie way of life. I love the old Aussie films on the lifestyle of the people living hard times pioneering the Australian bush and heat and the journeys they had. I enjoy the old Aussie sense of humour and slang. I especially love the dinkum Aussie bloke/battler who roved from one town to the next shearing and picking up what work he could along the way which is how this painting came about. I created it in oils with a contemporary effect displaying the the Swaggie and his loyal friend – half dingo half something else – dog/mate after sharing the warmth of the evening campfire, cuppa from the billy, and tucker they are settling in for the night. The swaggie shows his loyal mate a sign of affection by reaching to pat him – but not with too much affection so as not to tarnish that tough Aussie nature/exterior. The swaggie’s swag ready and waiting leaning up against the fallen tall timber of our south west in readiness for retiring till the break of next morn.