Savvy Painter Podcast with Antrese Wood
Arts:Visual Arts
What is it that catches your eye when you are determining what to paint? Do you look for color that speaks to you, are you drawn to certain subjects or locations? Growing up in Australia, Mary Tonkin quickly became enamored with, “The bush” - a term mostly used in the English vernacular of Australia and New Zealand where it is largely synonymous with backwoods or hinterland, referring to a natural undeveloped area.
Mary completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1995 and a Master of Fine Arts in 2002 at Monash University, where she has also lectured. Tonkin has held solo exhibitions in Melbourne and Sydney since 1999. Her work has been included in group exhibitions at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery, and internationally in New York.
It was my privilege to host Mary for a live session of our interview. It was a joy to have Mary open up about her process, what she sees when she’s out here in the bush, how she juggles life as a working mother, and so much more. I can’t wait for you to get to know Mary’s engaging story!
Brining the bush to lifeWhen you speak with Mary, you get a quick impression that she means business when she talks about slowing down and paying attention. For Mary, phrases like stillness, being present, and “taking in” a place, aren't' strangers - they are well-known companions on her journey. While it may be challenging to have a living and constantly changing subject like the Australian bush, Mary says that the experience has been well worth it. What stands out to you when you observe Mary’s artwork? Make sure to catch images of her paintings located at the end of this post.
Learning to adaptWorking in the wilderness in many ways can prepare you for challenging situations you face later in life. Learning to prepare for variables that you can’t control is a helpful training ground for parents. Mary was kind enough to open up about her experience as a working mother trying to navigate her time in the wilderness with her responsibilities at home. At the end of the day, it all comes down to quality over quantity for Mary, she is grateful for the time in the bush that she can reserve.
Feeding your curiosityI loved hearing from Mary about her own journey with compartmentalizing her painting life for both the good and bad, I know so many artists just like her! One big takeaway from my conversation with Mary comes down to the value of feeding your curiosity. Some of us love to explore our curiosity over conversations with friends, while others need time in solitude. What works best for you? How do you feed your curiosity and let it fuel your creativity? I want to hear from you!
Outline of This EpisodePainting the Everyday: Amy Scherer’s Vision of Suburban Beauty - EP 313
Feeling stuck in your painting practice? Try this.
Afraid to show your paintings? Listen to this.
The 10 Most Important Lessons I've Learned As An Artist
How To Reconnect With Play And Joy In Your Art - Ep309
Noah Saterstrom: On Building a Sustainable Art Practice- Ep 308
Building Unshakeable Trust - Ep. 307
Q and A with Antrese - Your questions answered! - Ep306
Yes! Savvy Painter is back - Ep 305
The Hidden Gold in Your Artistic Goals - EP 304
Trading Expectations for Appreciation - EP 303
Staying True to Your Own Vision (Regardless of What Other People Think) - EP 302
How to Stay Sane and Productive When There Is So Much Going On - EP 301
Why You’re Not Selling Your Paintings - EP 300
The Power of Connecting With Other Artists
Creative Habits - EP 298
Creative Mastery - EP 297
Giving Yourself a Fresh Start (My Antidote to Overwhelm) - EP 296
Choosing to Be Proud - EP 295
Creative Confidence and Trust (Gems from Growth Studio Week) - EP 294
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