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Bec Winnel
Did you ever study the arts or are you self-taught?
During high school, I took art as my major subject but apart from that I've taught myself from reading books, watching videos, observing artworks and a lot of practice, trial and error. I would loved to have studied Fine Art however life didn't go that way.
Where do you find your inspiration and what drives you to create?
Inspiration can come from many places but mostly I'm inspired by all that is beautiful... Nature, animals, emotions, colours, unique faces, faces with eyes that have a depth and mystery to them. Quite often there is one muse that I reference over and over, surrounding her with elements of nature. Drawing is my therapy and my way of escaping the world at times, creating images that sooth. This need to express my emotions and thoughts is what drives me to create.
Does your work carry a certain message?
My art soothes my own emotions and I hope that the viewer has the same experience. I also hope that my art promotes a positive image of women and helps women to feel self confident, inspired, loved and beautiful.
What are the things you enjoy doing in life besides creating your art?
I like spending time with the ones I care about, my pets, going to exhibitions, taking photos, sewing, occasional horse riding, road trips, watching tv series, gardening and pottering around the house.
You tend to work in colored pencil a lot, has that always been your medium of choice?
I am most comfortable with colored pencils. These were the first art mediums I grew up with and I guess the ones I have used the most. I like that pencils are instant to use, no mixing or preparing, they are just there, ready to go when you need. I also like that there is no mess with them, you only need a small space to work and you can take them anywhere. I like painting too and am experimenting with it. It has a mind of it's own, so it's nice to break away from the control with pencils and loosen up a bit with a liquid medium, taking this back to my drawing.
Could you share some artists that you’ve found influential?
I'd say my strongest influence would be Sara Moon. I accidentally stumbled across a framed print in an open hose we visited one day. It was love at first sight! I loved the softness, subject and the clever way the subjects fade away into the paper. My other favorite artists are Lilly Piri, Justin Lee Williams and Brett Whitley, all for different reasons. I find Lilly's work delicate, soft and gentle whereas Justin and Brett's work is loose and quirky and sometimes strange, bold and courageous.
How much do you think that your experiences have shaped you?
Who I am today is a result of all my experiences. Growing up with supporting and encouraging family helped my to deveop my creativity. There was never a shortage of art and craft supplies from boxes to make cubbyhole houses, nan's basket of nicknacks, mum's home made playdoh and draws full pencils and art journals. Spending a lot of time in the country helps you to use your creativity as most of the time you have to make your own fun. Also, being in the country meant no access to art course and studying so when I did move to the city I was and am extremely grateful for the opportunities it provides, the amazing art shops, the vibrant art communities and the galleries to visit. Living in the city has made me realize how much I miss the country, the mountains, trees, birds, streams... I have developed an appreciation that I didn't have before.
Why did you decide to accept the invitation to be an element eden advocate?
For a long time I dreamt of being an advocate, to be part of a collective with a similar vision and I could not have been happier when asked by Element Eden. Of coure the clothing is gorgeous but also they believe in a communal approach, one where they collaborate with creatives, nurture them, provide opportunities, encourage positive self image and have an ethical conscience for the earth.
Have you exhibited lately?
This year seems to have been the busiest year for participating in group shows. I think I've been in around 12. Whilst fun, it's been hard work! The most recent was in Melbourne with Ken Taylor, Alex Louisa and Steve Cross. The next group show is at the end of october with Spoke Art in the states.
What is ahead for Bec Winnel?
In 2011 I'm taking 12 months off work, relocating from Melbourne to the Kiewa Valley and focusing on my art and illustration. I hope to build on my commercial illustration opportunities and to produce a body of work for my first solo show. And of course, I hope it works out and that I can continue doing art full time, living in the mountains!
