In Our Gallery with Virginia Hendren

How long have you been an artist and how did you get started?

I have been an artist for only six months.

I wanted to take a break from working as a nurse and do something different that would challenge me to the core.

As I am a self-taught artist I had very limited knowledge about art basics.

I completed many hours of online study, exploring other artists' styles as well as some tutorials and courses which helped me to learn the basics.

I have converted a space into my art studio and have recently purchased a large shipping container which I will turn into a beautiful art space.

What was the inspiration behind your Here + Now piece at Bundaberg Regional Galleries?

The inspiration behind this piece was the wonderful national parks and rainforests in Far North Queensland that I was lucky enough to grow up near as a child.

I have many happy memories of playing in the crystal-clear creeks with my younger sister and our friends for hours and hours.

I loved to study the rocks in the creek beds and watch as the water moved around the large boulders in the river.

I would float on my back and stare up at the enormous tree foliage above me.

Everywhere I looked there were mountains on the horizon.

I tried to capture a bit of these elements in nature from my mind and displayed in my unique style on canvas.

What medium was used and how does this reflect your usual practice?

I used acrylic medium for this painting as well as moulding paste and some craft paper to create wonderful textures.

I do enjoy painting with acrylic paints/inks and paint pens.

I use a variety of tools other than paint brushes, including a spatula I stole from the kitchen!

I love texture in my paintings but also love exploring different methods.

I am always learning and growing each day as an artist and am not afraid to try different painting styles until I truly find my own style and groove.

What are some of your artistic highlights?

In just six months of being an artist I feel like I have achieved a lot already.

I have entered into four different art exhibitions and two art competitions.

I have managed to create my own small business including the creation of a website, organising logistics and suppliers.

I have learned a lot about art creation and also running a small business - it has been a busy productive year so far.

I have won second place for my artwork at this year's Bundaberg Show.

That was a big surprise for me and it helped me push on with my dream of becoming a well-known artist in my town of Bundaberg and perhaps, one day, Australia-wide.

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