Amy is a visual artist, curator, bookseller and lover of sweets… who has just submitted her PhD thesis for examination…
Tell us a little about yourself, your practice, your processes…
I am based in regional Victoria in beautiful Ballarat where I live with my husband and 2 cats. I work across multiple artforms and am also a curator and bookseller. I have recently submitted my PhD thesis for examination so am enjoying some slow, creative time, combined with many walks and sweet treats : )
What are you working on at the moment?
At the moment I am relishing creating collages and developing my skills in a slower manner after a busy decade of producing various projects and events in Ballarat.
I am also launching a new poetry book soon (August 1st online if anyone would like to join!
My husband and I run a second-hand bookshop Minerva’s Books which we are currently moving to online. I am looking forward to bringing my love of books and collage together with some new products using old prints and such, and also a possible arts and culture podcast.
Describe a typical workday – whatever that means for you.
At the moment my days are gloriously open. I have tea, do yoga, and then get into some collages, or bookshop stuff, or if I feel like it read, catch up with friends, and dream. I feel incredibly grateful for this time amidst the current chaos and uncertainty.
What or who inspires you to create?
One of the things I am most grateful for is my space I lovingly call the collagarium- it is my magical space for imagination and rejuvenation where I am often joined by my cat Minerva.
My husband built a system for me where I can store my archives but also my goodies for making and inspiration (like work from artists such as the awesome Melbourne based Gracia & Louise who create ‘Works on paper, from collage to artists’ books.’) I also do my daily yoga in there with Yoga with Adriene (another inspiration) who’s mantra is ‘find what feels good’- I am all about this.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
I can’t remember now if this was it exactly, but I’ll go with ‘Be yourself and back yourself.’ Also I’m not sure if this was direct advice from someone or just what I have done, but to follow your nose and make your own path- it might not be the most straight-forward but it is definitely the most fun!
View Amy’s work in our current exhibition here.
