Local artist profile: Kim Percy

THIS week we chat with multidisciplinary artist Kim Percy, whose practice involves developing a concept initially, then choosing the best medium or material to express her idea.

What motivated you to become a multidisciplinary artist?

I first started in film but I soon realised that my films were static and I was too shy to work with people.

I shifted focus to painting, then to printmaking and finally I begged the media school to let me study photography.

For me, art is less about the materials and more about the ideas.

Today I work in photography, painting, video, augmented reality and installations – I bring projections, art objects, framed works and space together.

How did you develop your multiple styles?

I develop a concept and then choose the best medium or material to express the idea.

My process for developing an exhibition or installation is to begin with research on a topic – at some stage I’ll have an ‘a-ha’ moment where I’ll picture the artwork or the whole exhibition.

It’s uncanny, like walking into a dream or onto a movie set.

Which other artists inspire you?

In photography, I love the decadent aesthetic of Bill Henson, the textures and layers of the Starn Twins and the direct storytelling of Sally Mann.

In film, I love the warped narrative of David Lynch and the epic worlds of science fiction and fantasy.

Painters that I keep returning to are the darkness of Flemish still life and the minimal spirituality of Marc Rothko.

Installation artists Chiharu Shiota and Olafur Eliasson are truly inspiring due to the scale and impact.

Have you had any mentors over your career?

I’ve had a lot. My first (were) my university lecturers Les Walkling and Godwin Bradbeer. Les inspired me to learn by expanding my knowledge through curiosity and research. Godwin showed me that beauty was in the shadows, but it needs the light to truly see it.

In (recent) years, many of my artist friends (have been) my mentors.

I was (also) fortunate to have the fabulous Jill Orr as my supervisor during my PhD.

What are some highlights from your time as an artist so far?

I’ve been very fortunate to have gone on several artist residencies – the latest ones were four weeks in Lisbon, Portugal, which I adored.

In 2024 I spent two weeks in a manor in Ireland before traversing Paris (and) Arles in France, visiting friends in Switzerland and meeting my son at the Venice Biennale.

How can people find your work online?

I have a website, kimpercy.com, and an Instagram page, @kimpercyartist

Where do you see yourself in a couple of years? What about in 10 years?

I’d like to exhibit in Europe, especially the big festivals like Arles. I’d also like to exhibit more at home.

I’d like to curate an exhibition on art and neurodivergence as I believe it’s an important story to tell.

More research, presenting academic papers and teaching – I love teaching at university and guiding students along their creative journey.

In 10 years, I’ll still be growing, giving and enjoying life.

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

Find your passion and nurture it. Go to art school and find a mentor, someone you trust.

Keep throwing your hat in the ring – keep turning up, keep making work and (keep) believing in yourself.

Create community and make opportunities for yourself.