Ipswich creative shares her artistic journey and invites community to explore gouache and watercolour at hands-on weekend sessions
Ipswich-based artist Kathryn Neilsen is preparing to inspire budding creatives with a series of sold-out art workshops as part of her three-week residency at the Ipswich Art Gallery’s workshop space, located between the gallery and the workshop in the CBD.
Speaking on Get Your Arts in the Gear with Glenn Smith and Brad at the Arts Connect Community Gallery, Nielsen said she was thrilled to have been selected for the Ipswich City Council-sponsored residency.
“It’s pretty amazing,” she said. “I’ll be hosting beginner-friendly gouache and watercolour workshops on weekends and running open studios from midday to 5pm on weekdays.”
Nielsen’s first workshop on June 14 is already booked out, with limited spots available for her June 21 sessions.
“We’ll be focusing on loose, expressive work — just getting into the medium and having fun,” she said.
Those interested can book via the Ipswich Art Gallery website or scan the QR code on flyers around town, including at Booval Fair’s Community Gallery.
From Coffee Cart to Canvas
Known to many locals from her time working at Ipswich’s Short Black café, Nielsen is a familiar face around the creative community.
“I’ve always kept a sketchbook, but it was encouragement from locals and friends that got me to start exhibiting,” she said. “Now I’ve picked up awards in both photography and fine arts.”
Her recent wins include second and highly commended in photography at the 2024 Ipswich Show, and commendations at both the Ipswich Art Awards and Brookfield Show.
Balancing Photography and Art
While Nielsen has a background in documentary-style photography, she says fine art allows more creative freedom.
“Photography captures the world as it is — but with art, I express how I feel about the world,” she explained.
To learn more about her upcoming workshops or view her work in person, drop by her open studio sessions or visit ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au.
0 Comments