ARTIST DIVA - Lorraine Emerson

Lorraine Emerson is a visual artist who works mainly from her studio, situated in the picturesque Dayboro Valley just 45km north west of Brisbane, Queensland. Lorraine’s creative work covers a variety of techniques and applications. These include inks, acrylic, mono printing, collage and encaustic on canvas or wood. She also enjoys creating wearable art such as unique felt scarves, hats and wraps using Australian merino fleece. 

Tenterfield was the birthplace of Artist Lorraine Emerson. It was a small country town situated on the Queensland and New South Wales border. Her first home is believed to have been in a tent on the riverbanks of the Mole River. Today, this is far removed from her studio that is nestled high in the hills of King Scrub.  She can recall receiving a huge paint set one Christmas when she was quite young. Lorraine shared, “I must have been painting and drawing well before this, unfortunately I can’t remember, however I can remember how excited I was to receive that gift.”  Family have told her that she was always drawing one thing or another.

Today she is still drawing one thing or another in between trying to organise an Open Studio Trail. Lorraine has always been inspired to have her own studio space where she can share knowledge and interact with other artists. She feels that such a place to show art, critique art and share conversation with other artists and friends over a glass of wine is an important part of her existence.

Lorraine’s studio is nestled high on a hillside with an ever changing view overlooking the Dayboro Valley. Amongst the smell and sounds of the Australian bush a tranquil studio setting is offered, complimented by large eucalyptus trees, wattles, king parrots and koalas. Lorraine is thankful to be able to work in such a peaceful environment surrounded by natural bushland.  Most of her inspiration comes from her own journey through life, such as, childhood memories, thoughts, emotions and daily events.

You are an artist who has worked with different mediums. What is your favourite?

I would have to say that mixed media seems to satisfy my creative needs at present. I use a combination of inks, acrylics, mono printing, found objects, conte, encaustics and collage.   

Where do you find inspiration for your work?

Everywhere, every day, I can be inspired by so many different things: a few words from a song, a passage from a book and even the sight of skeletal remains of fish in a dry creek bed in outback Australia. In general, I guess life itself.

Would you say you had a particular style or styles?

Yes, I believe I do. Especially when I create work from the subconscious mind, these images, thoughts and emotions are from my inner sanctum.

As well as working as an artist you also hold classes. How did your role as a teacher evolve?

As a matter of fact it came about accidentally. A friend wanted to know how to paint so I offered to show her some of the basics. We covered such things as mark making, contour drawing, tonal scales and colour association. Of course it grew from there.

Do you prefer to teach or to work on your own pieces?

I enjoy both. Sharing my knowledge with others and being witness to their creativity gives me great satisfaction.

You have had many exhibitions. Could you tell us about the one that was most memorable?

Looking back over the years when I was just starting to show my work, I received notification that I had been invited to exhibit in The Parliamentary Annex in Brisbane. Of course, I was naïve to the significance of the invitation.

What do you consider has been your greatest achievement?

I would say the last painting that I am satisfied with.

How do you market your artwork?

As an artist I am more concerned about creating the work than selling it. I think that the internet has helped many artists sell their work direct to the public, including myself.

What has been your greatest challenge to date and how did you resolve it?

I would have to say committing myself to a solo exhibition has been my greatest challenge. The resolution to do that is a combination of an organized schedule, self – discipline, determination and hard work.

What are your future plans?

I have been inspired to work harder on my own paintings after my recent visit to the Gallery of Pro Hart in Broken Hill and The Victorian Art Society in Melbourne where our Great Australian Artists once worked. I have also volunteered to help organize a Pilot Programme for an Arts Trail in our surrounding area. Another project in 2013 will bring together a number of artists for an Open Day of Demonstrations to be held in the Vineyard at Ocean View Estates. The intention is to create a combination of artistic workshops where students are offered to partake in a package of food, wine, and accommodation.

What is the next challenge for you personally?

To learn more about the composition and application of encaustics and to apply that knowledge.

PHOTO CREDIT –Lorraine Emerson