Mary McDonald's "Sunflowers and Sunlight on Glass Vase" is a vibrant mixed media work on panel that celebrates the interplay of light, colour and texture. The artist employs bold, impasto brushwork to create sunflowers rendered in luminous yellows that seem to capture the very essence of summer. Set against a serene blue background, the flowers emerge with remarkable presence despite the small scale of the piece. McDonald's approach is refreshingly direct—the glass vase is suggested rather than meticulously depicted, with coral-pink outlines and vertical green stems creating a framework that allows the eye to complete the composition. The textural quality of the paint application gives the work a tactile dimension that enhances its immediacy and emotional impact.

Bringing Nature Indoors
When displayed in a domestic setting, this intimate piece (21 x 15 cm) creates a focal point that draws the viewer into its world of colour and light. The compact dimensions make it versatile for placement in smaller spaces where it can introduce a moment of joy and contemplation. McDonald's work connects to the long tradition of still life painting whilst offering a contemporary interpretation through her semi-abstract approach and emphasis on material qualities. The painting transforms throughout the day as changing light interacts with its textured surface, ensuring it remains a dynamic presence that continually rewards observation.