In Conversation With: Erin Graham

Emerging artist Erin Graham finds joy in experimenting with different mediums and textures to capture a uniquely Australian mood.

Describe your practice in a single sentence.

Earthy layers with lots of texture or neutral minimalism, but I am very much still figuring out my style!

Where are you based?

I’m located in Brisbane, my studio is in a co-sharing space, often featuring my two baby boys.

What is the focus of your current practice?

I’m enjoying experimenting with different mediums, colours and formats. I am drawn towards large scale abstract paintings in earthy tones and will often use modelling paste or oil/chalk pastels for added dimension. I am learning to be patient with myself and learn different techniques as I go. Often the inspiration will simply come from a visit to my local art shop and seeing a medium I’ve never used before. It is just so fun for me.

Where do you find inspiration?

Everywhere. I will usually draw inspiration from  interior design and people, including my husband, who is a jewellery designer. Creating art has been incredibly grounding, and led me back to a place where I feel most myself. I rarely plan the end result, instead it’s mostly intuition led, which can make things a little tricky – sometimes a painting will take a few hours, sometimes a few weeks. Often, I will paint late at night once my young family is asleep, which for me is pure meditation and often when I work best because I am at peace.

What materials do you use and why?

Acrylic mostly, largely due to drying time and convenience. I do love oil though!

What have you been working on recently?

A couple of large commissions for a local Brisbane client who has given me complete freedom to do whatever I want, and my Ombre series.

Pick three art world players you would invite to dinner.

William McClure – I adore his work and style! Vikki Lee – she is a joy to watch and Will Day – he has the studio of my dreams.

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