In Our Gallery with Marilyn Batty
A trip to Thailand inspired the Off to Market piece for Marilyn Batty, who has been a practicing artist for more than 30 years.
How long have you been an artist and how did you get started?
I have been a practicing artist for over 30 years.
My career started after getting a Certificate III through a course in studio ceramics here in Bundaberg.
This expanded my interest in all forms of art and after purchasing an art store and running it with my husband for 20 years, I was hooked.
Tell us about your artwork displayed by Bundaberg Regional Galleries as part of the Here + Now exhibition?
”Off to Market” is part of a travel inspired series, with prints that I hope to exhibit in the future.
The work on display is a black and white lino-print depicting a Thai market seller in her boat, making her way up and down the river hawking her fruit and vegetables.
What was the inspiration behind this piece?
The lino-print currently on show at BRAG was inspired by a holiday to Thailand with friends.
We visited the floating markets and after reviewing my photos, it brought back memories of the busy and noisy market along with the colourful fruit and vegetables being sold.
What medium was used and how does this reflect your usual practice?
The medium used was printing ink on Stonehenge hot press paper.
Smooth paper and good quality printing ink gives the best result after putting them through the press.
How long did it take you to complete this artwork?
This artwork took several weeks to draw up, carve and proof during many stages of the development of the print before printing the final image.
My lino-print, although black and white, appears to be three dimensional.
This is intentional and makes the print stand out.
What advice would you give to others who are just beginning to explore art?
My advice to someone starting out is just be yourself.
Do lots of workshops with other artists and expand your knowledge, don’t be afraid to leave your comfort zone.
Exhibit where you can and enter competitions so you can see how your work sits with your piers.
Most of all, enjoy the journey.
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