Best known for his portraits of influential indigenous Australians such as David Gulpilil, Cathy Freeman, Warwick Thornton and Bruce Pascoe, Archibald Prize winner Craig Ruddy’s work centred on the human body and its connection to the natural world. His insight into the parallel between the natural and human experience, between the devastation of the environment and the sense of loss experienced by his portrait subjects, enabled him to portray an intrinsic truth about our connection to each other and the world. Ever the naturalist, Craig shaped his artworks while living in the Byron Bay hinterland of northern New South Wales.
Craig summarised his own life philosophy as freedom, balance and unconditional love. This book is a collection of photographs documenting the artist's process and personality: working in his studio and relaxing in his home, reflecting his insightfulness, playfulness and sensitivity. My hope is that it contributes to preserving images of an iconic artist and national treasure, providing insight for future Australian artists and cultural historians into the visceral role geography plays in stimulating creativity.