ure a feeling of overall happiness of the place. “Sydney Harbour” represents Done’s views of society as a result of its structure, surrounding and optimistic feeling, e.g. the sun that shines brightly over the bridge (bright sparkling sun is usually associated with happiness.) Ken Done’s “The Rock at Chinaman’s Beach” was created in 1987. The materials used to create this piece were oils on canvas. This piece is very different in contrast to “Sydney Harbour”. “The Rock at Chinaman’s Beach” is again an optimistic piece of artwork, but not to the extent of which “Sydney Harbour” is. This piece captures the love and beauty of nature. Like “Sydney Harbour”, it is a simplified painting which still gives off bundles of emotion. This also shows Done’s optimistic view of nature and society.“From the Ridge St Window” was created in 1979. The materials used in this work were graphite, coloured pencil and watercolour on paper. In contrast to “Sydney Harbour” and “The Rock at Chinaman’s Beach”, this piece shows much more detail and refinement in its texture and technique. The former two epitomise Done’s later trademark of childlike style, however he still manages to capture the happy optimistic feeling in this earlier piece which is recurrent through his work.Ken Done has been accepted and acknowledged by many popular cultures across the world. This is evident in Done’s huge success in scales of his work. “…uses bold powerful strokes, simplified shapes and brilliant rich colours to reflect the Australian landscape and typify the easygoing lifestyles of its people. Done’s optimistic and positive outlook on life and society appeals to the public which therefore results in his popularity in the design and art genres....
