Red Alert, 2024

Welcome to “Red Alert,” where the Aussie summer heatwave sizzles to life, and your expectations do a merry backflip! Phonsay’s latest painting sets an unforgettable stage: a longhorn steer wading through crystal-clear water, sporting a lifesaving ring hooked on its horn as if auditioning for an improvised beach patrol.

Just beyond, a group of boys zip across the waves on a jet ski, their laughter practically rippling through the canvas. On the shoreline, a bold red flag demands “No Swimming!”—though it appears the memo didn’t quite reach our bovine friend. Meanwhile, a seagull looks on from above, with a red buoy floating serenely below, adding one more splash of intrigue to this vibrant mix.

The sky above is a flawless shade of blue, not a cloud in sight. “Red Alert” teases us with the delightfully unexpected—an absurd yet joyful reminder that nature can be mischievous and life is best approached with a sense of humour. This is one summertime scene you won’t soon forget.