Having grown up with influence from an artist mother, when a sketch book was perceived as a treasured essential item, now professional graphic designer and illustrator Kristy still enjoys time in the realm of fine art working in various mediums. As time avails itself more often recently, an explosion of energy is concentrated on interpretation of life – an observation of life.
Her work with oils and acrylic on canvas has been known for its energetic tone - her technique creating an illusion of realism, concentrating on elements from our natural and cultural heritage among other subjects.
Kristy works very quickly, keeping the work fresh and energetic.
Although growing up in the mid north of South Australia has often influenced Kristy’s choice of subject matter, spending 10 years in the Northern Territory’s central and top end also continues to provide inspiration.
Currently residing in Queensland, the change in situation has promoted a shift at least in palate hues. Fertility of the country’s micro and macro environments, and social culture has manifested new subject matter.
Working as a graphic designer and illustrator specialising in natural history interpretation; and extensive Australian transcontinental travels has provided Kristy with much inspiration to choose subject matter that invoke positive messages about people and country.
Art training:
Art and Craft Certificate, 1 year, Kingston College, SA – majored in ceramics, jewelry and lapidary. Also participated in design and drawing subjects under the late Bruce Willson, 1985.
Advertising and Graphic Design Certificate, 2 years, Croydon Park School of Advertising and Graphic Arts, SA, 1986-1987.
Awards and prizes:
Design and illustrate a Telecom (Mid North and Yorke Peninsula) phone book cover contest winner, 1979, age 11
Design a Australia Post National Stamp Week Poster Prize winner, 1980, age 11
Design a Australia Post National Stamp Week Stamp Prize winner, 1981, age 12
Champion of Show, Clare Valley, 1979, 1982
Ian Kidd Design High Achievement Award, 1986
2nd Prize, Jamestown Art Prize, 2001
2004 Portrait of a Senior Territorian, winner Government House Foundation Acquisition Award for portrait of the late Arrernte elder, Wenton Rubuntja. Prize & exhibition, Parliament House, Darwin, NT
Mareeba Art Prize, 2006, 3 x Judge’s High Commendations
Exhibitions:
1983 Mother, Daughter exhibition, Mintaro (Clare Valley), SA
2000 follow up “On Reflection” Mother, Daughter exhibition, Georges of Clare, Clare Valley, SA
2006 The Coffee Works Exhibition (combined), Mareeba, Atherton Tablelands Qld
2008 Community Art Exhibition, Bella Art Gallery, Springfield Lakes Qld
2008 (Nov.) Solo exhibition, ‘West End Life' Art House Gallery, West End Qld
