Artist Statement
I have been a practising figurative oil painter since graduating from ECU with a B.A. Visual Arts (major in painting) in 2003. I use multi-layered glazing techniques and am drawn to subjects that reflect my passion for lighting, allegory and mood.
Inspiration comes from observations of things that are out of the ordinary, that create an emotive response in me or suggest a narrative or set up a binary tension. I enjoy shining a light on aspects of the world and human experience that might otherwise be overlooked. The philosophies behind my work are existential.
Working as an artist is the most challenging thing I have undertaken but it is also the most pure state of being I know. The act of engaging in creative work taps into a deep intuition and sensitivity that makes me feel truly alive. Art gives me the chance to work independently, overcome internal barriers, apply my vision and develop my business acumen. I find working for myself to be very gratifying. It has taken many years to figure out that I am simply not happy doing anything else.
Recent achievements include winning the 2017 Bluethumb Art Prize, 2015 City of Stirling Print Award, the 2013 Albany Art Prize People’s Choice Award, and placing as a national finalist in 2018 Collie Art Prize, 2013 Black Swan Prize for Heritage and the 2012 Black Swan Prize for Portraiture. Works are held in various private and public collections.