How would you describe what you do?
As an oil painter, flowers serve as my muse. I am captivated by the raw, imperfect beauty inherent in flowers. My work is an exploration of nature’s beauty, portraying it through the interplay of rich, textured compositions. While saturated colour pops in highlights, my preference leans towards a lower chroma, ‘dirty’ colours which create low-key compositions.
When were you first drawn to your current practise?
My journey into the world of florals began about 15 months ago when I explored still life as a subject in an art class, but my passion for painting stretches back to childhood. Over the past few years, I have honed my skills in oil painting, a medium I just love so much!
Where are you and your studio based?
I am based on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, where the natural beauty deeply influences my work. Reflecting my love for the natural world, my studio is designed to capture light and is adorned with wooden accents and indoor plants. Being a perfectionist means my creative space must be tidy and serene.
Did you study fine arts or are you self-taught?
While I gained a Bachelor of Animation at Griffith University QLD College of Art, my journey as an artist has been predominantly self-taught. Undoubtedly my work is shaped by the influences of both structured learning and personal exploration.
What does a typical day in the studio involve?
I am a morning person so I have to eliminate those morning distractions, such as emails and social media, to work. I allocate two-three full days a week to painting, while the other days are focussed on the business side. My daily ritual is making a ceremonial cacao or coffee before I can begin anything!
Why are you drawn to your subject matter?
My primary subject matter revolves around florals, although this year I’ve introduced female figures into some of my compositions. Florals, for me, embody not only beauty, vitality and peace, but also imperfection, strength and wildness. It fascinates me how symbolic of my personal perspective flowers can be.
What materials do you use?
I primarily work with oils, and I also find joy in using charcoal and pastel. The process of placing and selectively removing layers of oil paint plays a pivotal role in my artistic style, allowing me to craft depth, light, and movement within my work.
Is there anything you’re currently working on?
I’m working on my spring collection which will be unveiled at my solo launch in September 2024.
Pick three art-world players you’d invite to dinner.
Jess Le Clerc, the principal of Art School Co. and my inspiring art teacher; Andrew Tischler, a fine artist from New Zealand with an inspiring podcast, The Creative Endeavour, and Tahlia Stanton, a mixed media artist.
Above: Artist Jasmine Veronique. Photo: Christine Hall. Courtesy: the artist.
