Playful Games
An original oil painting by Meli Axford
Oil on canvas, 2024, 150 × 120 cm
‘Playful Games’ captures a moment of lighthearted teasing as Lily uses a pool skimmer to retrieve something from the water while Mia lounges, concealing the wanted ball and watching with a knowing smile.
The vibrant red backdrop heightens the sense of fun and energy in the scene, while Polo waits expectantly, as if caught in the middle of the playful exchange.
The interaction between the figures reflects the everyday moments of connection and amusement, where the simplest actions can spark joy. The title emphasizes the carefree spirit of the scene, where humour and play are at the heart of this shared moment.
An original oil painting by Meli Axford
Oil on canvas, 2024, 150 × 120 cm
‘Playful Games’ captures a moment of lighthearted teasing as Lily uses a pool skimmer to retrieve something from the water while Mia lounges, concealing the wanted ball and watching with a knowing smile.
The vibrant red backdrop heightens the sense of fun and energy in the scene, while Polo waits expectantly, as if caught in the middle of the playful exchange.
The interaction between the figures reflects the everyday moments of connection and amusement, where the simplest actions can spark joy. The title emphasizes the carefree spirit of the scene, where humour and play are at the heart of this shared moment.
An original oil painting by Meli Axford
Oil on canvas, 2024, 150 × 120 cm
‘Playful Games’ captures a moment of lighthearted teasing as Lily uses a pool skimmer to retrieve something from the water while Mia lounges, concealing the wanted ball and watching with a knowing smile.
The vibrant red backdrop heightens the sense of fun and energy in the scene, while Polo waits expectantly, as if caught in the middle of the playful exchange.
The interaction between the figures reflects the everyday moments of connection and amusement, where the simplest actions can spark joy. The title emphasizes the carefree spirit of the scene, where humour and play are at the heart of this shared moment.
Part of Meli Axford’s celebrated Pool Series, this painting brings to life the joy and humour of familial relationships. The playful dynamic between the figures captures the essence of shared connections, transforming an everyday interaction into a narrative filled with warmth and energy. The vibrant red backdrop amplifies the emotional resonance, symbolizing love, vitality, and the bonds that tie us together.
Axford’s signature techniques, including bold colour blocking and the use of negative space, lend the work a striking and modern aesthetic. The composition balances lighthearted play with artistic sophistication, making it both visually captivating and emotionally engaging. The humour and subtle tension between the figures added depth, inviting viewers to reflect on their own relationships and shared moments of amusement.
Perfect for collectors of contemporary Australian art, Playful Games is a vibrant celebration of connection and laughter. This piece is an engaging addition to any collection, capturing the joy and humour of life’s simplest, yet most meaningful, moments.
