Kirsten Johnston

“My style sits between realism and abstractism.” That is how Kirsten views her body of work, which is dominated by paintings of trees and Australian landscapes, with a strong commitment to bright, bold colours. Art has been a part of Kristen’s life for just over a decade. Just as it did for Andrea, Kirsten’s foray into art started with Ann Carpenter TAFE classes.

That was in 2008 and five years later painting found its way into her repertoire with Kirsten taking her work seriously last year. “I had always been interested in art but never really had the opportunity to do it,” Kirsten said. “Once I had my family I did have the time and I needed some sort of outlet.” Now she treats her art practice as a job. “I do try and do it every day,” Kirsten said. “I can often only do it for an hour or so as my work needs time to dry and I certainly want to make sure I don’t stop enjoying it. I always have three or four things on the go. I am not a full time artist but it is on my mind all the time.”

About seven years ago, Kirsten held her first exhibition, opened by Ann and held at Gallery 54, but by her own admission she has evolved as an artist since her early days as a TAFE student. “I was scared of colour and everything was black and white and all very safe,” Kirsten said. “Now as I work with ink on canvas I find it so inspiring – a lot more fun and a lot less science involved.” Kirsten is no stranger to SALA exhibition, previously showcasing her work in Kingston, and also having had her work as part of an Adelaide SALA event at Gallery M, in Oaklands Park.