Meet Ian Brown

Meet IAVA member Ian Brown. We asked Ian a few questions about his art practice.

What was your earliest memory of an interaction with Art?

I can remember painting a foam surfboard at a really early age in primary school and being so proud of it... stylised hibiscus with a glowing sunset (aargh)... obviously, I was searching for a large canvas even back then.

How would you describe your art practice? (Media; influences, approach?)

I've always thought of myself as an artist in search of a style but lately people say that a new work is different from my usual work... So I must have a style? I love anything abstract and enjoy pushing, splashing, dripping and scraping paint. I particularly enjoy working on large canvases. I constantly attend schools at venues like the National Art School trying to pick up new techniques. A couple of years back I attended workshops with Wendy Sharpe and Euan Macleod which I found so creative and inspiring. A recent week long workshop in Byron with Judith White pushed me out of my comfort zone and into hand printed collage. Her workshop has definitely influenced many of my latest works. 

Do you have a favourite artist/s or artwork?  What is it that makes it/them your favourite?

My favourite contemporary artist living in Sydney is Marisa Purcell. She is an excellent teacher helping me to become bold and uninhibited in my mark making. Stand in front of her work and you can melt into it... Her exhibitions are immersive. There is something quite spiritual about her canvases. 

Most recent adventure or achievement?

I actively work promoting art education for young children. My most recent adventure this year (pre COVID) was working with a foundation for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) in Abu Dhabi. One of those wow moments was visiting the new Louvre in Abu Dhabi. It is spectacular and difficult to describe. Put it on your bucket list if it is not there already. 

 Any current goals you’re working towards?

I am enjoying working with my new (and old) friends in IAVA and I am thrilled to have some IAVA exhibitions in the future to work towards. I am currently finalising a 'real' website to promote my art (watch this space). 

Visit Ian’s art profile.
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Ian Brown in his studio.

Ian Brown in his studio.

Affordable Art in time for Christmas

(L-R Julie Donnelly, Jennifer Jackson, Melissa Ritchie, Alannah Dreise, Arja Välimäki)

(L-R Julie Donnelly, Jennifer Jackson, Melissa Ritchie, Alannah Dreise, Arja Välimäki)

Everyone loves the buzz of a market. It’s the colour, movement and excitement… but most of all, it’s the bargains! The Illawarra Association for the Visual Arts (IAVA) is setting up  booths at Clifton School of Arts and will be presenting a fabulous array of beautiful things on Fri 6 – Sun 8 December.

 Says IAVA President Moira Kirkwood:  “We create and exhibit our artworks throughout the year, but there are always pieces that are left behind. We want them to find good homes and are prepared to make the price right!”

 There’s all sorts of works on show over the  three days, from Alannah Dreise’s collagraph prints of theatrical figures, to Gill Day’s bold and vigorous landscapes.

 Melissa Ritchie has just completed a solo show at Kiama. This in-demand artist is influenced by graphic art and vintage design, creating both portraits and contemporary pieces describing everyday life with a hyper-realistic style.

 Julie Donnelly is a multi-award winning abstract artist. “ I love playing with light in my paintings. I paint everything from the desert to the mountains and try to capture the varying illusions that light can create.”

  Arja Välimäki’s work is sold internationally. Her paintings are about the beauty of our oceans, and she recently sold many works at The Other Art Fair at Barangaroo, seen and enjoyed by thousands of Sydney-siders. She has still has one or two left for locals though, so get in quick!

 The artists would love to see you throughout the weekend and will be available to discuss their work.  Join the artists for Drinks at 2pm on Saturday.  All welcome.

 ART SALE

with the artists of IAVA – Illawarra Association for the Visual Arts

 Clifton School of Arts

Fri 6 / Sat 7 / Sun 8  December

10pm till 4pm

Join the Artists for Drinks on Saturday at 2pm

More information phone Mary on 0434 160 337

Ocean Tracks

Mel Duncan's latest solo exhibition Ocean Tracks opens this week!

Ocean Tracks
Exhibition 1 May - 2 June 2019 
Little Blowhole Art Bar
Shop 6 /4 Tingira Crescent Kiama Ph 42324990
 

OPENING EVENT 2 MAY 5.30-7PM
 

Please contact Mel (ph 0415169 282) to advise  if you're joining her for dinner afterwards.

MEMBER ACHIEVEMENTS

Susan McAlister and Deb Redwood have both been selected for  Sculpture in the Valley this year. 


Jenny Jackson has been awarded First Prize in the Miniature Section of the Sydney Royal Arts & Crafts show. She was also recognised with a Medal of Excellence for her work. 

Mel Ritchie achieved 'Highly commended' in the SBS Portrait Prize with her fabulous self portrait 'Brace yourself'.

Gillian Dayhas work in this year's Affordable Art Fair Hong Kong. 

Thirroul Seaside and Arts Festival

The Art Prize and Exhibition displays a variety of artwork including works in watercolour, pastel, acrylic and oil painting, prints, photography and sculpture.

Follow this link to download the entry form, key dates and further details click here

The exhibition will be held at the Thirroul District Community Centre and Library.

Program for the Exhibition

Friday

Official Opening 7.00pm.
Exhibitor entry by invitation, additional tickets $20 pp including 
refreshments. Persons under 18 years of age not admitted due to licencing laws.

 Saturday

Exhibition open 10am – 4pm.

 Sunday

Exhibition open 10am - 2.30pm last admission 
(collection of purchased works from 3pm - 4.30pm).

‘Meet the Artists’ sale in Community Centre forecourt 10am – 2pm.