Emotive, transportive – and simply beautiful – art is the jewel in the decorating crown. A house is simply not a home without art.
“Buying an original artwork is a bountiful investment,” says art consultant Swee Lim of Swee Design. “We’re invited to see the world differently through the eyes of the artists. In doing so, we’re also supporting artists – the cultural lifeblood of our society.”
Best of all, art doesn’t have to be inaccessible. Take a look at these three highly collectible Australian artists – each of whom produces original works for less than $2000.
Impressionist artist, South Australia
I’ve been painting professionally since 2007 and have always worked in creative roles, from art to graphic design to product development. My work has certainly evolved over the years.
It’s very textural. I use tons of paint to achieve an almost sculptural quality in the work.
I love the process of creating – getting lost in the build-up of layers. I switch off the analytical left side of my brain and the act of creating becomes meditative and intuitive.
I’m a bit beach-obsessed and in awe of the Australian landscape. I also love flowers and try to capture their colour and texture in my botanical pieces.
I love the feedback I get from collectors. The emails and notes I receive are so heartfelt, which keeps me inspired to keep creating.
My smaller pieces (30 by 30 centimetres) are $560, and larger ones (100 by 100 centimetres) are $3600.
Through my online agents – Greenhouse Interiors for landscapes and botanical pieces, and Bluethumb for beachscapes. Also through my loyal bricks-and-mortar galleries – Art Images Gallery, Martine Gallery and Paper Pear.
Abstract artist, Victoria
I’m based in Melbourne, I have two teenage kids, a wonderful fiance Aaron and a beautiful cat named Tilly. I started painting nine years ago as a hobby. I’m now a full-time artist.
Geometric with a contemporary twist.
Acrylics.
The peace and feeling of the flow of paint on canvas, the mocking-up of each piece, the mixing of colours and the intertwining shapes and patterns.
I was never drawn to loud bursts of colour and lived quite a monochromatic life. As time has elapsed, I find it hard to believe that I did not let colour enrich my life the way I do now. I celebrate every colour I use.
I keep it below the $2000 mark so that it’s accessible to everyone who wants an original piece at an affordable price. But I have worked above this price point, predominantly with larger-scale commissions.
Through Greenhouse Interiors and through me via email.
Indigenous artist, Queensland
I’m a proud Wiradjuri woman, originally from rural New South Wales. My husband and I have two teenage children and decided to put down roots on the Sunshine Coast – Gubbi Gubbi country – a little over 10 years ago. I’ve painted for about 20 years in varying styles. These days, I paint from the heart and always go back to my roots which, for me, means a contemporary Aboriginal style.
The connectedness creating works of art gives to culture, and the sense of peace it brings me. It’s a cathartic and connected process for me – quite an emotional journey at times.
I mostly work with acrylic paints on canvas, although I’m constantly experimenting.
I’m significantly influenced by my surroundings. It’s impossible to walk by the beach and not draw inspiration from the changing colours of the ocean, the feel of the sand or the glistening sun across a set of waves. Alternatively, the change in season in the nearby bush is also a source of inspiration – the rain and the renewal of the warmer months.
It’s varied and dependent on size and composition. An original painting will start from $450, and my larger pieces can go up to $4000.
I’m fortunate to be part of an incredibly supportive team, Greenhouse Interiors, which is where the vast majority of my work is available, both originals and limited-edition fine art prints.