1) Tell us a little bit about your label (art) and what you do?
I’m an artist and designer with a big dream to bring joy and love into people’s lives through creating beautiful portraits of their children that will be treasured for years to come. I’m currently also into painting birds, the more I paint the more I want to do, I love how many different types there are and how diverse and beautiful they can be. Most of my paintings are on reclaimed wood salvaged from the roadside, its great finding something that would otherwise be thrown away to landfill and turning it into a beautiful artwork.
2) What inspires your work?
I’m inspired by the little things in nature such as leaves being blown across the pavement or a colourful bird singing in a tree and specifically the colours I see around me. Also I’m a sucker for Pinterest.
3) What jobs have you done other than being an artist?
I’ve been working as a graphic designer since I graduated from uni nearly 20 years ago, makes me feel old saying that!
4) What memorable responses have you had to your work?
I’m always very humbled when I hear people say nice things about my work. Someone once said that my kids portraits were like Banksy meets the Brady bunch which I thought was funny.
5) One thing you can’t live without?
Coffee
6) What gets you up in the morning?
My 4 year old son – too early, always too early! That said, I’m always keen to get in studio and get on with something creative. I love my work and feel very lucky that I can say that.
7) How would your best friend describe you in 3 words?
Creative, kind, persistant
8) What is the next skill you want to learn?
I’d love to learn more about photography and screen printing.
9) What is your dream project?
I’d love to design and paint a mural for an arty cafe or shop!
10) Favourite or most inspirational place in Sydney?
I have a soft spot for Coogee beach.
11) What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.
12) What advice would you give to new, aspiring Makers?
Be inspired by others but don’t copy, find your own voice in whatever work you do and this will give you the most joy and energeticaly this will shine through in your work. When you’re working on a piece that you totally loose track of time doing because you love it so much, then you know you’re onto a winner!
13) And most importantly, what would your ultimate karaoke song be?
I’ve had the time of my life by Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes
Maria Harding
stencilportraits.com.au
facebook.com/stencilportraits