What do you do? I am a painter but also make zines and write music with my partner. My paintings could be described as romantic landscapes with apocalyptic edge. Generally I use a mix of mediums from oil to house paint.
When did you get into it? It’s hard to say really. At a young age I always went for the sketchpad whilst others maybe went for books or dolls. There was never really any question of what I wanted to do with my life; I always knew that art was everything. I feel quite lucky in that regard; I’ve never questioned my path.
Who or what influences you as an artist? Artists such as Mathew Barney and Luc Tuymans are at the top. Also the amazing artists who are my friends in Canberra and abroad who inspire me constantly in my everyday life, from photographers to composers.
What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far? I think actually finishing university! It took me six years to do an undergraduate. I don’t believe in rushing.
What are your plans for the future? To keep painting - I have a CCAS residency for the second half of this year that I’m looking forward to.
What makes you laugh? The funny cat from next door with a lopsided mouth that has adopted us, and has developed an exclusive diet of fresh tuna.
What pisses you off? Bloody cold houses in Canberra. Cold tea. Insincerity. Mistreatment of animals.
What’s your opinion of the local scene? The scene in Canberra has always been a vibrant and extremely supportive community. It would also be great to have more ARIs (Artist Run Initiatives) set up here to offer more alternative exhibiting space.
Upcoming exhibitions? I have some work in a group show space scapes in Tassie at the moment, curated by local, Fernando do Campo. I’m also showing at Strathnairn Gallery in July with Gosia Pilat. I have my six month CCAS studio artist residency soon, with a solo show in early 2010 at CCAS Manuka.
Contact Info freeman.rachael@gmail.com.
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