Local artist profile: Kerryn Finch

THIS week we speak with still-life painter Kerryn Finch.

What initially motivated you to become an artist?

I always loved drawing and creating things when I was a kid. I was lucky that I grew up being a keen observer of the world around me, and that just led to a natural instinct to want to draw things, as a way to understand them.

I think I made the decision to be an artist at a very young age, but I didn’t really know or understand exactly what that meant at the time. So now, as an adult, I can say that it’s partly a choice, but it’s more like a need you have. Other artists and creatives get this. It’s just part of who you are. It’s as though you can’t live any other way.

How would you describe your style?

My style is currently still-life painting for the most part, with some quirks and things not typically seen in traditional still-life painting. It’s developed over time, and it’s a bit like my own language. I paint the things that are around me, that have meaning to me. Whether that’s a packet of chips, or a CD cover or some flowers from my garden, it’s my view of the world around me.

Are there any themes you like to feature in your artworks? What draws you to these themes?

I suppose the themes of memory, nostalgia, nature, music, pop culture are some of the things I’m interested in. I’m a pretty keen lover of native flora, and a gardener, so these things pop up in my work.

Which other artists inspire you and why?

Any artists who are out there having a crack, persistently working, and being true to their own creative practice are an inspiration to me. I had some amazing primary, secondary and university teachers and lecturers who inspired and encouraged me over the years. I have always loved Brett Whitely, Joy Hester, Margaret Preston, Margaret Olley, to name just a few amazing Australian artists.

What are some fond memories you have from your career so far?

Going to art school was a highlight for me. I started off back in the early 2000s at TAFE and then La Trobe in Mildura. I made some life-long friends back then, and it really was the best experience. We had some great times and I learnt so much.

How has your practice been affected by COVID?

COVID has been positive in many ways for me as an artist. More time at home to create, life’s been a bit slower. I’ve enjoyed some aspects of that.

How can people check out your work and, most importantly, purchase it?

People can check out my work on Facebook and on Instagram. They can also see a couple of my paintings in a group show until early May at the St. John of God Hospital.

What would you say to young regional aspiring artists who are thinking of making a go of the artistic life?

To any younger aspiring artists, I think I would advise them to experiment with as many art materials as possible, if they can afford to. I would also really start looking at galleries and books and the world around you. Read about artists. Everything is art! The other thing is, stop making excuses and just make art.