Artist: Catherine Stewart

Catherine and I spent some very big days working in the studio, I loved her use of other objects like old book covers from OpShops she would paint on and give new life too, I had some pretty dodgy handmade paper that she transformed with some awesome emus in the wetlands we had seen on the road in - It’s now a prize piece in my house her. We also had some off beat adventures to the sand dunes….one to remember! Ha! - Kate

Artist Bio:

Beechworth based artist Catherine Stewart has predominantly lived and worked in rural settings. Her artworks infinitely reveal the beauty of country subjects.

Having an artist mother, exposed her to professional art practise at a very young age. Her connection to the outback was nurtured early and her work is informed by the beauty of the rural environment. Favourite subjects include creek and river studies, her native home garden and wide open landscapes.

Her stunning interpretation of Australian native flora, birds and still life and dream like landscapes showcase the intensity of her palette and tenacity of her strokes. Catherine's innate sense of colour is also at the forefront of her practise.

Catherine frequently exhibits in solo and group exhibitions and is a multi award winning artist. Her works are widely collected in Australia, the UK, US, Portugal to name a few.

Q:what did a typical day look like for you at Coorong,life?

A:Typical day at Coorong Life—What was obvious from my first night was how rested I felt with the soft background lull of the water and wind. I have never slept so well! A typical day was to enjoy a healthy breakfast, pack some lunch, take a random drive and follow my nose. Each day brought fresh delights………… I felt like I was revisiting the steps of John Olsen who famously captured the Coorong earlier in his career! Lots of walking, observing through the morning and sketching once Id found my bearings in a sheltered position in the afternoon.

Q: How did the Coorong influence you? How did you connect with the landscape

A: The Coorong was much more diverse than I first imagined. The saltbush met the dunes, pink lakes, the emu mob that called your property home, glass like expanse of water out front, shallow pools teaming with life, intricate shells and tiny exquisite sea birds. I felt unexpectedly connected to the Coorong when I learned that my own grandfather enjoyed sea fishing in those very water when I was a child. I’ll continue to revisit the Coorong themes in years to come once I have established a connection to place, that’s what keeps me energised as an artist. Kates warmth and hospitality invites you to linger a little longer!

Q: Did your residency unlock something new in your practice?

A: My practice in mid career has allowed me the breathing space to explore new environs and the Coorong was my first ein plein air experience of artmaking in some time. The experience has encouraged me to explore outdoors more readily and push my skills into new territory.

Q: what advice would you give the next ArtistIn Residence?

A: My advice to new Coorong Artist in residence participants is to take things slowly, allow yourself the time to explore the sights, sounds and surrounds first and foremost. Ideas arise in unexpected moments. Be curious.