BRISBANE ARTIST TAKES OUT TOP PRIZE AS ARTISTIC JOURNEY PROVES A STRUGGLE
Brisbane contemporary artist Juliet Mackie has taken out ‘Best in Show’ at the 2014 Brisbane Rotary Art Spectacular. Earning herself a cash prize of $10,000 and a dose of much-needed validation.In 2013 Juliet decided to jump into her artistic journey with both feet after discovering a love and flair for painting, when looking for unique art pieces while renovating an apartment, going on to establish a studio and supply her work to businesses, styling consultants and private buyers.
Since then the New Zealand-born Juliet has experienced the full ‘struggling artist’ stereotype. With a sudden death in the family and the subsequent fall-out seeing the 52-year-old lose her New Farm apartment and studio, forcing her to travel the country with the support of family and friends looking for employment.
“After a long and demanding mining career I am searching for a ‘normal job’ and have travelled the country over the past three months with the loving support of family and friends,” said Juliet.
“My life has undergone such a drastic change in the past year. I have certainly learnt that at times to be an artist means to be so vulnerable. However, I know that no matter where I end up my art will always fit in.
“With all of this going on, to take out the top prize of the Brisbane Rotary Art Spectacular has meant so much to me – it was the first time I had ever submitted my work for judging and upon taking out the prize I was grinning for days.
“It was particularly meaningful to receive this award at a time of my life where things have been such a battle, it truly gives me the strength to continue on with my artistic journey.”
Since taking out the prize, Juliet’s artwork has been further recognised with the Brisbane Modern Art Gallery taking on two of her paintings for their gallery.
“It was so amazing and humbling to have my work recognised by the Brisbane Modern Art Gallery following the award,” said Juliet, who received the award for her acrylic on canvas work ‘Turquoise Flow’.
“In November I was also lucky enough to receive an invitation from The Agora Gallery in the well-known Chelsea art district of New York City – I hope to be able to be in a position soon to take them up on their invitation.
“While I may have no formal studio currently, I am committed to continuing painting and will do whatever I have to make that a reality – even if it means working out of a storage unit as I have done at times during this stage of my journey.”
Those interested in finding out more about Juliet Mackie or who would like to purchase an existing artwork or commission a tailor-made piece can visit www.sincerelyjuliet.com or contact Juliet on 0499 080 713 or email hello@sincerelyjuliet.com
