Silencing inner critic key to painting

Living in a paddock on Dongara, artist Jayne Rolinson is constantly surrounded by nature.

It’s her biggest source of inspiration, the constantly changing scenery always providing interesting perspectives for her abstract works of art.

“I’m out there photographing reflections and it changes in two seconds,” she said.

“Nature’s not perfect, just let go on the canvas and let your own creative mark-making come out.”

Working full-time as an artist, Rolinson runs a variety of workshops around the region, promising guests they’ll produce a piece of art good enough to hang on the wall in three hours.

Rolinson believes everyone can paint and that all it takes is a willingness to let go of the inner critic and allow the painting to tell the story.

“For me as an artist, I’m a big layer-er,” she said.

“I build up and build up and eventually the painting emerges out of that.

“It’s a beautiful way to paint.

“Simply, if it’s not working, let’s just turn it upside down, start again, let’s just paint over it.”

As a child, Rolinson always had a creative mind, spending her time painting, sewing and sculpting.

Although she never studied art, she’s a self-proclaimed workshop junkie, constantly learning new ways to progress her work.

Now Rolinson is an award-winning artist, her vibrant, energetic and bold art pieces regularly featuring in exhibitions.

By running workshops, she hopes to spread the joy of painting to those who believe they are unable to do it.

“We’re all artistic — it’s whether we choose to do it or not to do it,” she said.

“It’s about letting go of that fear, having fun and being amazed at the end with what they’ve produced.

“I think it’s quite liberating for people.

“Even though everyone’s been given the same instruction, it’s beautiful.

“They’ve all done this wild, intuitive painting.”

On Friday, Rolinson launched her solo exhibition, Nautical Miles: Where the Land Meets the Sea, at Latitude Gallery.

Showcasing a selection of abstract artworks dedicated to WA’s coastline, Rolinson said living close to the ocean was a constant source of inspiration.

“I am constantly in awe of this stunning coast,” she said.

“One day a gentle breeze — tranquil turquoise waters. Next day, howling winds whipping the ocean into a frenzy beating the sand.

“As an artist, the visual inspiration of the coast is simply amazing.”

Nautical Miles will run until late November at the Latitude Gallery. For more information about Jayne Rolinson, visit jaynerolinson.com.au.

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