A STRIKING three-piece painting of a poppy has been donated to the Mount Gambier Community Returned and Services League by the daughter of a former Australian army serviceman who passed away recently.
Vicki Axleby, daughter of Robert “Bob” Axleby, 84, who passed away in December last year told The Border Watch her father served in the army in 1951 and she wanted to honour his life and service with a painting.
“Anzac Day was coming up and dad always used to march,” she said.
“I thought I could paint a poppy as a token of my respect and love for him.”
Ms Axleby used watercolour on canvas to create an artwork consisting of three pieces that fit together like a jigsaw puzzle to depict a red and black poppy flower.
“The three pieces just happened,” she said.
“I was not planning anything in particular, but as the work progressed it evolved into three separate canvasses forming a single image when put together.”
Ms Axleby said the work had been “sitting at home since Anzac Day” and she thought the RSL would make a perfect home for it since her father had also been a member of the league.
The painting was recently accepted on behalf of the RSL by president Bob Sandow, who said an appropriate place would be found for it on the premises.
“It is this kind of community engagement that keeps the league alive and Vicki’s donation is much appreciated,” Mr Sandow said.
“Like Vicki, we remember and honour those who served and are serving our country.
“We are here for them and their legacy.”
