Local contemporary artist Holly Eva will be returning to the Scarborough Art Show this year to exhibit her joyful and colourful freestyle art.
Born in Camden and raised in Avoca Beach north of Sydney, Holly works from her studio in the old Bulli Timbermill, now a creative hub for professional artists. She exhibits regularly in Sydney and Wollongong, has participated in three Sydney art fairs and sells her works to collectors worldwide.
In 2018, Holly came second in the Thirroul Seaside Festival Art Prize and she has twice been a finalist for the highly regarded Mosman Art Prize. She has been featured on Channel 9’s The Block Shop, My Kitchen Rules and in Belle magazine and has collaborated with celebrities including Taryn Brumfitt and Delta Goodrem.
Holly describes her art as “unconventional, intuitive and joyful” and she works in both abstract and figurative styles, describing her painting process as “a beautiful, chaotic dance…guided by the process of painting”. Her paintings are vibrant and colourful and we sat down with her to ask her about her work and the upcoming Scarborough Art Show.
What are you working on at the moment?
I am currently working on artworks for several different events – firstly for the amazing Scarborough Art Show in October, which I love to be a part of. Also for Sydney's "The Other Art Fair" and the emerging art prize run by gallery owner Michael Reid. I am painting as well for a homewares store in Orange called Jumbled.
Why do you choose this medium?
I am a mixed media artist – I love all of the different textures I can create by mixing things up a little. I am also a non-conventional artist, meaning I’m happy to try all kinds of new things... I choose these mediums as it feels natural to me.
What motivates you to create?
I can't really “not create”. But I would simply say that it's the love of art that keeps me motivated.
What makes you curious?
Seeing what other artists are doing and how their paintings make me feel. Recently I stumbled across the work of English-Mexican artist Joy Laville. Sadly, she has passed away but I am intrigued by her art as it makes me feel a certain calmness. It’s quite reflective. Researching past great artists also keeps me curious.
What do you enjoy about the Scarborough Art Show?
The people, and also the diverse levels of artworks presented in the show. Some artists have been painting for a long time and their work is hung alongside artists that may be showing for the first time. It's really lovely. It strikes up conversation and you can share stories.
The Scarborough Art Show has a special community-based vibe and it's so lovely to see clients returning year after year to make purchases to support the artists and the school.
The Scarborough Art Show is back on the weekend of October 6, 7 and 8 at Scarborough Public School, 371-381 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Scarborough NSW 2515. Find out more at www.scarboroughartshow.com