7th February 2026 Beena

 

The Sydney Opera House stands as an architectural icon, instantly recognisable and celebrated worldwide for its breathtaking design and cultural significance. Conceived by visionary Danish architect Jørn Utzon and brought to life by an Australian team led by Peter Hall, its creation pushed the boundaries of engineering and imagination. Officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1973, the Opera House remains a beacon of creativity and, in 2007, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, marking its enduring global legacy.

In 2023, my friend Khoo captured a mesmerizing photo of the Opera House illuminated against the night sky during her holiday. The image captivated me, yet I hesitated to paint it, intimidated by the challenge of capturing its luminous beauty. It wasn’t until December 2025 that I finally took on the task. Using acrylic paint, I navigated countless corrections before achieving a result that genuinely delighted me. When my trusted critic exclaimed, “You nailed this painting,” I felt a surge of accomplishment. It struck me then why masters like Monet, Manet, and Renoir gravitated toward landscapes: their organic forms forgive imperfections. In contrast, the Opera House demands precision—its iconic lines leave no room to hide.

Hence, moving forward, I think I will stick to landscape-based work so I can enjoy my art. I would like to hear your thoughts. Do you think I am being a coward, trying to shirk from difficult paintings? Please let me know.