Artist: Carolyne Hallum

Tell us about yourself.

I am fortunate to call myself a full-time artist who has two beautiful adult children and our first grandchild on the way. I also work in a retail store which allows me to escape my studio for a day or two to mix and socialise with co-workers and customers.

Where are you based?

My husband and I live at the foothills of Mount Dandenong, Yarra Ranges, with my studio in our home.

How would you describe your creative style?

Being self-taught, I am continuing to explore my creative style. I have only been painting for a few years now and I’m still finding ways of using and pushing paint around getting the results I like. I use acrylics, either on canvas or board.

How did you begin your career?

As long as I can remember I have always enjoyed making and creating things. I ran my own ceramic line for a few years when my children were young but ended that when it became too big to handle on my own. Then a few years back, I opened a pop-up shop in my shed with my art and other wares and I was lucky enough a shop owner came and purchased some pieces, and it all began from there.

Who and what inspires you?

Inspiration for me comes in many different forms like a vase of flowers, a snippet from a magazine, cuttings from the garden, everyday surroundings or even a piece of material or tablecloth. There are some lovely artists out there that inspire me also who have given me some wonderful advice over the years.

What do you love about your work?

What I love is painting and the freedom to create. I love the people I have met along the way and the opportunities I have had. The people, the customers, knowing that my art is in someone’s home to enjoy and my stores who believe in my work – this is why I paint.