Upcoming Group Exhibition - 6-19 February

Painting 2015 at Brunswick Street Gallery from 6-19 February.  A number of my works will be included in the show.



Gazanias, Oil on Canvas, 30 x 30cm

Exhibition Opening - Beneath the Layers

Thanks to everyone that attended the exhibition opening in Bendigo last weekend.  In addition to the main gallery, there are two other rooms of my paintings on display.  If you're in town, drop in and have a look.  The show runs until 23 March.

ARTIST INTERVIEW: SHELLEY HALL

Shelley Hall - Beneath The Layers (Solo Show 8-23 MARCH 2014)

Explain a little about the theme of this exhibition

 

‘Beneath the Layers’ is a series of representational paintings focusing on my everyday life.  All of the paintings have some personal significance to me such as flowers from my garden, my partner and objects in my immediate environment.  In doing these works, I discovered many different layers of meaning within seemingly simple objects and experiences.  These paintings are also a metaphor for stripping back the masks we wear. However, I prefer to leave the final interpretation up to the viewer as everyone will see something different in the work.

Could you explain the process and style of your work?

In this exhibition, I have used fairly traditional painting techniques often working directly from life.  My work is mostly expressionist in that I prefer to capture the emotion and feeling of the subject rather than an accurate depiction.  I really enjoy the spontaneity of working this way.

How has your work developed over the years?

Since moving to Central Victoria from Melbourne a few years ago, my work has continued to evolve.  Initially I was inspired by the Central Victorian landscape and spent a lot of my time walking around drawing and connecting to the bush.  In this latest work, I have shifted my focus closer to home.  I have really enjoyed painting on a smaller scale and the connection I have made to more intimate subjects.

What is your most important artist tool?  Is there something you can’t live without in your studio?

My first reaction is to say a paint brush, but it’s probably my suitcase of oil paints.  My second choice would be the view of the garden from my studio, as it is a constant source of meditation and inspiration.

Where to next for you artistically?

I am really enjoying the figurative aspect of painting at the moment so I will probably continue in that direction.  I suspect my work will become more expressive over time as I am really enjoying that aspect as well.

Beneath the layers is a series of observational paintings centred around Hall's immediate environment and surrounding local landscape.

"Focusing on what I see around me, these paintings are meditations on familiar scenes, objects and experiences of my everyday life."

Forthcoming Solo Exhibition, 8-23 March 2014

Got Art 2013 - Annual Group Show

This year's 'Got Art' Annual Christmas show at View Point Gallery will include a number of my prints/etchings.  The show opens on Sunday, 15 December from 4-6pm and runs until 24 December.  View Point Gallery, 13 View Point, Bendigo.

Anatomy Exhibition, View Point Gallery, Bendigo

Interview for Anatomy Exhibition, View Point Gallery, Bendigo

This weekend we're featuring Shelley Hall for our Artist Spotlight - one of the artists exhibiting in the current show, Anatomy. I really enjoy Shelley's style, especially her oil works. Be sure to pop in before the 24th of May to check out Shelley's work.

Shelley Hall's Artist Book, currently exhibited at View Point Gallery

Tell us a little about your artistic journey...
I have been an artist ever since I can remember.  As a young girl I spent most of my time painting and drawing.  I became serious about my art practice about 13 years ago when I was in a position to dedicate more time to painting and haven’t looked back.

What inspires you?
Life, nature, colour, movement, freedom, other artists.

Shelley Hall's Memento Mori

What are the main medium(s) that you work in?
I work primarily in oil painting, but also drawing, printmaking and occasionally sculpture. 

How would you describe your work?
My work is very diverse and is constantly evolving.  Essentially it explores the themes of nature, spirituality and femininity.  

Shelley Hall's John Getting Dressed

Tell us about the specific pieces submitted for 'Anatomy' at View Point Gallery
The two paintings address the issue of mortality and are a reminder of the importance of living in the moment.  The Artist’s book was created from a meditation on the landscape.  It includes poetry and drawings of found objects such as bone, dead leaves and flowers.  The naked female figure sitting beside a river in the landscape symbolises that we are all one with nature, life and death.  The choice of handmade paper represents impermanence and transience.

What are you working on currently?
At this stage, I am continuing to respond to the landscape.  I am also considering introducing the figure and other elements into the paintings.