THIS week we chat with digital artist Bridie O\u2019Toole<\/p>\n
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What motivated you to become an artist and what brought you to Bendigo?<\/strong><\/p>\n I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer several years ago, which brought me to Bendigo.<\/p>\n Art has always been a huge part of my life and continues to comfort me during challenging times. I can’t ever remember not drawing.<\/p>\n As a kid, we always had colouring books and a big basket of textures and pencils. I have fond memories of my mum drawing pictures and me trying to copy them.<\/p>\n It was my favourite subject at school and the only one I was ever good at.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n How would you describe your artistic style and how did you develop it?<\/strong><\/p>\n I am a self-taught artist, or really just a girl who enjoys expressing her thoughts through pictures.<\/p>\n I work digitally, which means I create my work using an app on my tablet. This allows me to change colours, alter lines and overlay patterns and images.<\/p>\n I am into digital collage at the moment. It’s like finding your jigsaw pieces and creating your own puzzle.<\/p>\n My work is always evolving; it never finishes developing.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Are there any particular themes that you feature in your artworks? What draws you to these?<\/strong><\/p>\n I mostly draw female images, as they represent a feeling or reaction to my environment.<\/p>\n It’s my way of releasing thoughts without speaking.<\/p>\n This is a constant theme for me, as it’s an urge I can only satisfy by making these feelings visible.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Which other artists inspire you and why?<\/strong><\/p>\n Artists that step outside the box.<\/p>\n An artist that puts their thoughts down on paper and shares this with the public is a brave person.<\/p>\n We never want to be judged, so I applaud artists that have the courage to share intimate pieces.<\/p>\n I spend many hours scrolling on Instagram. There is so much talent out there, I think they all play some role in my art.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What are some fond memories you have from your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n I have really enjoyed working with my sister Frankie O. She has introduced me to the Bendigo art community, which has welcomed me with open arms.<\/p>\n Thank you to everyone who has supported me and loved my art.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n