THIS week we chat with award winning Heathcote based contemporary/abstract visual artist Irene Majer.
What initially motivated you to become a visual artist?
I have been creating since I can remember. My wonderful mother always provided me with paper, pencils and other bits and pieces. When I finished high school I wanted to go into a creative field which took me to study industrial design. My first professional job was with Ford, first as an automotive clay modeller, then as an automotive designer. I learned a lot from the creative people that surrounded me. I left Ford to pursue a dream of working and diving on the Great Barrier reef in Townsville. It was when I became pregnant with my first child I thought a career as an artist would be perfect – it allowed me time at home raising my children. Now I work as a full-time artist from my studio in Heathcote.
How would you describe your style and how did you develop it?
My style is contemporary/abstract. I love combining familiar realistic shapes with an abstract approach. I have dabbled in many different art fields, including sculpting, designing, printing, ceramics, silk, and others. I think I have taken elements from each stage and combined them to create the art I make today.
Which other artists inspire you and why?
My greatest inspiration in my early years was Salvidor Dali, also Klimt. I just loved their unique approach and design sense.
What are some highlights or fond memories you have from your career so far?
I love being represented by Eagles Nest Fine Art Gallery – eaglesnestgallery.com.au – and Seaview Gallery – seaviewgallery.com.au. I have won some awards in the past and most recently I won the Queenscliff Art Prize*, which was a great honour for me. My works have found homes all over the world and I am always grateful to the many people that own my artwork.
*Overall winner for Boulders Three – mixed media on canvas including reflective media and high gloss resin. The Queenscliff Art Prize is Australia’s biggest outdoor art and photographic exhibition, with more than 230 works exhibited in 2023.
How has your art practice been affected by COVID? Has there been little change or has it had a substantial effect?
The beginning of COVID was bad. Art galleries closed. When galleries reopened and people couldn’t travel, they enjoyed visiting galleries and sales actually increased. Things seemed to have slowed a bit now, more back to normal as people are enjoying travel and holidays again.
How can people check out your work? Do you have any exhibitions coming up?
I am represented by two beautiful galleries, Eagles Nest Gallery in Aireys Inlet and Seaview Gallery in Queenscliff.
My artwork can be viewed on Instagram @irene.majer.artist and Facebook @irenemajerartist.
I have a few exhibitions coming up: Camberwell Art Show from 24 June to 2 July, Seaview Gallery in December 2023, All About Art – a fundraiser for brain cancer in Jan Juc from 8 to10 December and Heathcote Winery in January and February 2024. I also take commissions.
What would you say to young regional aspiring artists who are thinking of having a go at the creative life?
Paint most days. Make a work schedule, keep a sketch book of ideas. Work with good lighting. Visit galleries. Read art books. Look closely at art that inspires you.