Joanne Olney Art

Colour …

Brightening up your day with this colourful landscape.

Roused From Slumber I
20x20/24x24cm Fr
Oil based Mixed Media On Panel
£245 Framed

Will soon to be included in the beautiful spring exhibition of ‘In My Mind’s Eye’ at West Horsley Place Barn 14-19th May. Dm if you would like to come to the PV on 16th.

Back To Before …

After the excitement of our recent show I now need to return to the ‘Still Life’ project I started last year. This is a mixed media series inspired by moments of stillness and the transience of time.

After painting exclusively for the past few months it’s felt quite strange to return to a range of different mixed media techniques. However I’m enjoying being experimental again, particularly layering materials and finding innovative ways to reveal what’s gone before. I even took a razor blade to this piece!

There will be over 20 pieces in this series each unique, sensitive and ambitious. I’m looking forward to sharing it with you next month, as part of the Eastbourne International Singing Competition (). If you would like information about this event please subscribe to my newsletter via my website. It promises to be an interesting experience.

Serendipity…

The palette, scale and individual interpretations evident in the ‘Renewal’ exhibition harmonise in unexpected ways. This good fortune, along with the opportunity to collaborate with such a fantastic group, has been a wonderful experience. Come along tomorrow to our ‘sparkle Saturday’ event and be part of something special. Serendipity in action …

Sat 6th April 10-4pm ‘meet the artist’ event 🍾🥂


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art.buyer

Opening Today …

Renewal

A vibrant exhibition of contemporary art by
The Art Buyer Collective. A curated group invited to exhibit .art.buyer gallery in Thames Dutton.

Pop along and see wonderful art by …



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I’ll be in the gallery today and again on Saturday, along with all the artists, ready to greet you with a warm welcome.

Hanging Day …

This little one is coming with me today, just one of a series created for the Renewal show opening on Wednesday along with …


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‘The Promise of More’
Mixed Media & Oils
20x20/35x35cm framed
£245

Showtime …

These colourful little paintings are proudly waiting to be packed up and transported to .art.buyer gallery next week. They will be included in the ‘Renewal’ exhibition alongside the vibrant work of 5 other talented artists.co.uk




Do come along and see them.
3-14th April 10-5pm Tues - Sun.

New Work For A New Show

Renewal …

I have created a series of paintings to exhibit for a curated show with ‘The Art Buyer Collective’, a group of six established female artists invited to create work on the theme of Renewal. The exhibition promises a vibrant selection of contemporary artworks inspired by the beauty of small moments in every day.

Visitors to the Art Buyer Gallery, located in a quaint historic village close to Hampton Court Palace on the River Thames, can expect to see a diverse range of pieces, from charming still life compositions capturing subtle highlights, to bold and expansive landscapes evoking a sense of boundless awe and wonder.

Maybe join us for a glass of fizz on Sparkle Saturday 6th April? The show runs from 3rd April Tuesday-Sun day 14th, 10-5pm and Monday by appointment.

For further information visit .art.buyer website

I feel privileged to be part of this talented group



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Hello …

It’s been a while since I introduced myself so here’s a bit of info about me …

I was educated at an independent convent school in west London, confirmed as a catholic at Westminster Cathedral but later, in my twenties, became a Buddhist starting my day with an hour of chanting. That phase passed, the sound of my early morning gong ritual attracted unwelcome attention in our provincial village!

I’m a self confessed course ju**ie having completed dozens of courses throughout my adult life. Well over 20 residential ones at West Dean College alone from printmaking and batik to jewellery and painting. I’ve also achieved advanced city&guilds textile and professional photography qualifications just because they interested me. My studying has not been limited to creative subjects as I’ve also completed mindfulness training, anger management and counselling … the list goes on!

I’m scared of heights so was surprised when my husband gave me a paragliding session as a recent birthday present. I did give it a go and despite my worst fears took off like a pro and landed like Mary Poppins, upright on two feet!

I’ve had an long and interesting career as an occupational therapist, mostly working in the community and mental health. Without a doubt my favourite job was in vocational rehabilitation. It was in this setting that I had the greatest therapeutic influence e.g I introduced a triple amputee to welding, despite the obvious risks and mostly because a physiotherapist said it as an unrealistic goal! It was also here that I established a successful photography group, secured sponsorship from Fujifilm and facilitated some impressive exhibitions showcasing the patients incredible images. I met quite a few VIPs over my OT career, including Ray Winstone (actor) who speaks just like one of his Guy Ritchie characters but was modest and charming in real life!

Contemporary Textile Fair …

I’ve just dropped this piece off to in Teddington. I’m exhibiting as part of the pop-up ‘unravelled’ show curated by Catherine Sweet and .

The exhibition starts tomorrow 4-8.30pm, then 10-5pm on Saturday and Sunday. Swipe across for more info. It promises to be good!

Here are a few of my favourite shots from our relaxing break in Cornwall. My big ‘realisation’ moment from these few days came this morning during a restorative yoga session. The delightful teacher invited attendees to explore how a pose felt if we tried less hard. I think this perspective could apply to my art practice too! Is this something you could also consider and if so in what context?

Colour is gradually returning…

After a significant period of working mostly in a desaturated or monochrome palette, I feared that colour may never reemerge in my work. It seems that my concerns were unfounded.

These little paintings simply remind me to trust the creative cycle and acknowledge that this type of energy is inclined to ebb and flow, often in unexpected ways. Much like life itself I guess!

I’m currently creating new work for a collaborative exhibition in April. If you would like to be amongst the first to hear about this and other exhibitions planned for this spring, maybe sign up to my newsletter. Link in bio. 🙏

In miniature …

I’m currently exploring different ways of interpreting our group theme of ‘Renewal’ inspired by . Today I reacquainted myself with a neglected set of gouache paints. I was very taken with the chalky finish and intense pigment that characterises the range.

This mini painting is 3” square and was originally destined for my sketchbook but now I’m thinking otherwise? Is there a more deserving place for ‘tinies’ I wonder? Maybe sitting on a shelf or fireplace? Any thoughts on this or whether some pieces are just too small to be displayed?

First exhibition for 2024 …

Last year my priority was reflecting on my practice and developing new work, this year I hope to be sharing these new creations.

This show in collaboration with is an opportunity for you to see how I have combined photography, printmaking and stitch.

It promises to be an enriching event so why not pop it in your diary and come along. DM me if you would like to meet up.

Big and Small …

I’ve started painting again, some small ones and this big one. This will be part of a mini series for a joint show with 5 other artists this Easter in Surrey. The theme is ‘Renewal’ and my work is inspired by which is a stunning nature reserve on the Island of Sheppey. The farm has been in the same family for generations and is now in the process of a re-wilding initiative. My plan is to produce 6 pieces in 3 different techniques, accompanied by an explanatory sketch book.

What techniques would you like me to use for this project? I’m thinking a painting on panel and maybe another on paper, photo lithographic prints and maybe a couple of textile pieces? How does that sound?

Alignment…

… Is the word I’ve settled on for 2024.
Whilst lying in my ‘sickbed’ I realised I’d lost my focus and had allowed myself to become overly invested in projects that are essentially less important than I imagined. By that I mean, I had attached a disproportionate amount of emphasis on them, to the detriment of other things. I now realise this needs to change. I need greater balance in my life which hopefully will enable me to achieve a clearer perspective on things in general.

I want to realign my intentions with my core values.
I feel quite excited by the prospect of this shift.

The main reason for sharing here is for accountability which personally I found useful.

Have you decided on a guiding word for this year?

Radical Self Care…

Christmas didn’t happen for me this year, I had Covid instead. I’m beginning to realise that I’ve not been alone in this misery. I can honestly say it’s been horrendous. I’ve never felt more unwell and am still far from better. The only good thing it’s afforded me is plenty of time to think. Although I’m beginning to recognise that this also can be inadvisable if done to excess which is perhaps why I’m so often plagued with headaches. Anyhow, a summary of my most significant thoughts are these:

Social isolation is crippling - I’ve only seen one person (apart from my husband) in 10 days and only because they also had Covid!

Having a caring partner is a true gift

Supportive friends and family sending regular messages has been a lifeline however it’s the phone calls that have been the most sustaining

I almost certainly have developed the unhealthy habit of packing too much into my life to the detriment of high quality self care, that must change

Most of the ‘trappings’ of Christmas are unnecessary and meaningless, the only bit I missed was quality time with those I care about

Nothing matters more than good health, nothing comes close to it in importance

My priority for next year is self care
What will yours be?

Ready for stitching …

Once I’ve done everything else in preparation for Christmas I can start to stitch this latest creation. It consists of two fabric layers, one is vintage cotton with silk organza on top. I’ve transferred a photographic image onto each using a Photolitho process with my etching press. It appears grainy and faded which I like, like an old sepia photograph. I’m noticing that working with fabrics is becoming increasingly satisfying to me although I’m wondering if this is a good thing or not? Could this be self doubt creeping in? I may need to reflect on this.

Endorsement …

Some of you are aware that I’m currently in the process of developing new work. It looks very different which initially felt quite risky, yet still important for me to pursue.

The reaction I’ve had from recent audiences has been overwhelming positive, so I’m pleased I was able to follow my intuition.

I think listening to the ‘whispers’ can be transformative. Do you?

Sharing…

Over the past few weeks I’ve had a few opportunities to ‘create’ with friends, either as mini workshops or most recently to start a fresh collaboration. Sometimes I ‘over commit’ which can bring unnecessary pressure but often times, breaking up consistent effort on one project, with something entirely different brings a welcome change. I’m hoping that shared responsibility for this new idea will enrich my ongoing series.

Our first meeting yesterday started with discussing ideas and gathering images on respective mood boards. We then dived straight into collage, limiting the time spent on each design to 10 mins and just 5 pieces. It was very interesting to see how they improved with each one. They became bolder, simpler and more energetic.

What are your thoughts about interrupting an ongoing series with something entirely different? Do you think it helpful or potentially disruptive?

Starting …

Why is starting so hard? I love making, I have an idea what I’m going to do, the materials are ready so what’s stopping me?
Procrastination? I wish I knew. It’s not just my creative life that is thwarted by a reluctance to begin.
Maybe it’s just the rebel in me who resists any kind of predictability, who knows? 🤷🏻‍♀️After overcoming this initial hurdle I’m fine, momentum prevails and all is well. But starting, that’s the problem.

If any of you also experience this difficulty I’d love to hear your thoughts or strategies.

Remembering …

This is a piece from the new series I’m currently developing inspired by Mum who sadly passed away a year ago today.

The collection, when finished, serves as a poignant tribute to the legacy of hope left by Mum. It celebrates life's preciousness, recognizing the bittersweet beauty of impermanence. The goal is to prompt reflection on fleeting moments and the understanding that nothing lasts forever.

Experimental Stitch …

I’m still exploring ways to combine my photography with printmaking techniques and stitch. This piece is printed on fabric and layered with a very fine Japanese paper which I’ve stitched into. I sealed it with a thin layer of cold wax medium to unify the surface then float mounted in a bespoke box frame. I think it works but prefer stitching into organza. So will continue searching for the perfection combination!

Closing Soon …

I’ve donated a piece of my work to the which will close at 9pm (GMT) 12th November – please follow the link to bid: https://www.ebay.co.uk/usr/heartresearchuk_shop

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Finally Happy…

I’m content now to say this is finished. It’s a piece that has tested my patience somewhat. It started well, with a clear photo-litho transfer onto linen. The next stage of adding coloured then transparent layers seemed more tentative than imagined. I thought the decorative hand stitching would be the final stage but that turned out not to be the case. I felt sure something was still missing. I even framed it but felt dissatisfied with how it looked, so I decided to ‘rest’ it for a while.

I finally resolved the piece by adding a carefully constructed grid of tiny stitches across the entire surface. This secured the organza and added subtle uniformity. I replaced the first frame with a soft grey coloured, box style version, electing to ‘float’ mount instead of using the original window type. After all these modifications I was finally happy with the result! Sometimes perseverance is my greatest asset!

Textile Collaging…

I’m currently experimenting with transferring my photos onto textile fragments assembling them like collages. I print, layer then stitch. I’m looking forward to seeing how this one develops. I never really know. I stitch like I paint- intuitively. Little by little, listening to the whispers and stopping when it’s quiet. I have a good feeling about this one - I think she’ll be good. 🙏🏻

Yellow Window …

May brighten up your day!
This is one of the pieces I’ll be showing Christmas fair with on the weekend of 24th - 26th November, 10-4pm. There is also a PV for invited guests on the eve of 23rd. If you’d like to come along to meet the artists and chat with a glass of mulled wine DM me with your email and I’ll add you to my list. It’s an inspiring event in a fascinating setting - think ‘Ghosts’ crossed with a ‘Christmas Carol’ to conjure up the scene. I hope you can make it.

Sneaky Peak …

These are close-ups of two mixed media pieces I finished last night. I’m aiming to create 20 for my exhibition in Eastbourne next May/June. I’m learning so much through experimentation but hope that they convey the delicacy and sense of place that is so important to me. I want each to tell it’s own story, hopefully connect with the viewer and resonate in some small way. That’s probably ambitious but I like to aim high! 😊

Planning Ahead…

Some of you are aware that I’m currently creating work for 2 exhibitions next year. The first is in April, with further info released in January, the second is at the end of May in Eastbourne (I mentioned it in my interview with Margret Petrie on her brilliant podcast).

I’ve recently been asked for information about the Eastbourne ticketed event. Here I’ll be showing my work accompanied by 2 other artists and . The art exhibition is additional to the main event which is a classical singing competition to discover, support and promote fresh talent. Staged at The Birley Centre in Eastbourne, a perfect venue with it’s purpose built auditorium and accessibility. It is also ideally located right next door to , close to the sea and the heart of this historic coastal resort.

There is a limited number of tickets per session so probably best to book early, particularly if you want to see the final! You can purchase tickets using this link https://www.ebisc.co.uk/apply-for-tickets

Working in a series …

I’m currently working on a series inspired by my interpretation of ‘Still Life’. The pieces reflect my thoughts and observations about life, nature and impermanence. I’m enjoying the discipline of working to a brief, albeit self imposed! Once completed the collection will be 20 on display as part of the Eastbourne International Singing Competition May 31-2nd June 2024.
www.ebisc.co.uk for tickets.