Comprised of a collective of 13 accomplished, mid-level exhibiting visual artists, Sydney Road Gallery opened earlier this month in the Sydney suburb of Seaforth with artist Fiona Chandler at the helm. “I went through a huge learning curve after becoming a full-time artist. While there is painting and studio time, there is generally not as much as needed and there is also much more to an artist’s life in the way of marketing, pitching, approaching galleries, studio visits and deliveries that take up a lot of the week,” says Fiona.

Fiona came up with the idea of a combined gallery space after speaking with other artists who were facing similar issues. “We concluded that if we did these things together we could make it simpler for ourselves and our clients,” says Fiona.

“Every artist in the collective see buyers of art as patrons of the arts rather than simply a transaction. When you spend hours or even months creating a piece, each painting or sculpture has a story woven into it. We want to tell those stories to our patrons and the people who change spaces with our art such as stylists and interior designers. The feeling that comes from making something and then seeing that made item in a living or work space, and knowing that it was specifically chosen, can be life changing for an artist,” says Fiona.

The artists produce work from range of disciplines including painting, print making, textiles and sculpture and they work closely with interior designers, architects and stylists. “Artists are collaborators, it takes many people to see original artworks on walls. We want to acknowledge the coming together of patrons as well as stylists, interior designers and architects who create unique and aesthetically beautiful spaces,” says Fiona.

As for the artists involved, Fiona is a huge fan of them all. “Jaimee Paul is an amazing young artist who depicts animals up close while Catriona Pollard uses sculptural basketry to create extraordinary from the ordinary. Miguel Gonzalez’ work has amazing energy across many mediums, from murals to incredible canvases, Miguel is an ex-architect with an amazing understanding of space. Totally different again, Monique Tyacke captures the Australian beach with warmth and light,” says Fiona.

“I have been absolutely blown away by the enthusiasm and professionalism of our group of artists. The interactions and sharing of possibilities is so important when you are used to working on your own. We hope to be a very positive addition to the greater arts community,” says Fiona.

The Sydney Road Gallery artist line-up includes:

Fiona Chandler
Saffron Craig
Miguel Gonzalez
Debbie Mackinnon
Sarah Montgomery
Jaimee Paul
Catriona Pollard
Eleanor Rex
Trisha Trinder
Monique Tyacke
Amanda Tye
Fiona Verity
Jessica Watts

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