Local artist profile: Judy Hutchins

THIS week we complete our Heathcote visual artist series by chatting with semi abstract expressionist Judy Hutchins, who works across a number of mediums including scratchboard, printmaking and oil.

What motivated you to take up art as a practice?

I’ve always had an interest in art and have been creative throughout my life. I always felt the need to paint and create. In 2010 I decided to take drawing and painting classes and over the next seven years I studied drawing and painting, firstly with Heathcote artist Gail Casey and later with Bendigo artists Ben Winspear and Darren Crothers.

Working with paint has a very calming and therapeutic effect on me. I become lost to time and totally immerse myself into the art and the process of creating the piece. It is always a feeling of immense satisfaction when a piece comes together.

How would you describe your style?

I would describe my style as semi abstract expressionism. My style has evolved over the past 13 years through many hours of study, practice, observation and experimentation. I work in a number of mediums. Oil and cold wax is a favourite medium and is particularly suited to my style. I work in an intuitive manner using colour and texture to convey my emotive response to my subject.

A lot of my work is inspired by childhood memories of the outback station my grandparents lived on. These emotions and memories form the basis of my artwork. I’m drawn to the colours and textures, the very essence of the landscape.

Which other artists inspire you?

The artists that have inspired me most are Australian artists Robert Dickerson and Fred Williams. Although Dickerson is a figurative artist and Williams a landscape artist, their works are evocative and they have the ability to depict feelings and elicit strong responses from the viewer. Both artists had an artistic vision that they remained true to throughout their careers, a trait I greatly admire.

What are some highlights from your career so far?

Some of my highlights would be the thrill of selling my first painting and the sense of achievement in receiving my first art prize. No matter how many works are sold, the first one is always memorable and to be judged and acknowledged by your peers is a special feeling. My fondest moments, however, have been in the company of other artists.

The inspiration, support and companionship of mixing and working with other artists is always an uplifting experience.

How can people find your work?

I’m very excited about an upcoming exhibition to be held at Dudley House in Bendigo in August. Myself and another Heathcote based artist Elaine van Dyk applied for, and were successful in receiving a grant from the City of Greater Bendigo as part of their Artists On View program. The exhibition titled Same Country. Different Interpretation will be open from 5 August to 13 August.

My work is also available to view on my artist’s Facebook page judyhutchinsartist where I regularly post works and works in progress.

What advice would you give to young regional aspiring artists?

I would say follow your heart and go for it. Learn your craft and open yourself up to what is around you. Play, experiment, push the boundaries, allow yourself to make mistakes, make a mess and enjoy. Find your passion and work on that. I won’t say it is an easy life, you will probably be poor in money but you will be rich in fulfilment.