The Joys and Solace in Art with Artist Denise Cox
At this stage in my life, I seek solace through my art.
Being creative brings me joy, peace and a sense of accomplishment.
I love being immersed in the colour, texture and the adventure of painting.
Painting for me is my happy and safe place.
A space where I have the freedom to express myself through colour, shapes and textures.
Inspiration for Art is Everywhere
Having recently relocated to Tasmania permanently after a few years of living between Tasmania and Queensland, I feel truly blessed to call Tasmania home.
Everywhere there is inspiration for new work, and I find myself appreciating and observing nature, buildings, the coastline, ocean, rocks, rivers, mountains, trees, wildlife, flowers in our garden, everything with an artistic lens.
The Power of a Present of Art Supplies
I think I have always been artistic and creative.
Recently, I came across my first painting from when I was 10 years old.
Gifted some oil paints and a canvas pad, I had painted Lion Rock off the shore of our family holiday destination in New Zealand.
I excelled at art in high school and applied to study Fine Art at the Qld College of Art, without success.
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Expressing Emotions Through Art
Over the next 14 years or so I painted for a hobby, mainly large abstract acrylic paintings in bold colours which adorned various walls in my home/s and family and friends.
I now recognise I painted to express my emotions and feelings.
In 2024 after a 12 year hiatus I returned to the canvas, finding that rekindling my artistic passion was instrumental in nurturing my mental health and well being.
The Joys of Exploring Art Via a Range of Mediums and Techniques
I have worked with oils, pastels, collage, and variety of printing techniques and textiles.
Presently most of my work is in acrylic or mixed media and on large canvas’s.
I love creating textures to bring my paintings to life.
I like to explore new mediums, materials and techniques and not be tied to one medium or style.
Building the Dream Art Studio
Currently my studio is in part of the large garage.
However, there are plans to build a studio which will start in the new year. I am very excited about this!
Creating Landscape Art
Recently I have been painting mostly large Tasmanian inspired landscapes in mixed media and acrylics.
I want to delve back into the world of abstract and become more interactive with my work.
Looking back at my first painting at aged 10 years, it and others to follow were of landscapes!
Sketching While Travelling
I tend to sketch while travelling.
Taking the time sit, enjoy the view or immerse myself in the culture of the destination.
Recently while away for work I took paper, felt pens and pencils so I could capture the outback landscape.
Creating a Space for Art & Inspiration
I am working towards designating a space that stimulates my creative sense.
I want to fill it with natural light, quirky objects, images and music that grounds me and inspires me.
I now know after all the years that creating a space for stillness and mindfulness is important to my creative muse, inspiration and mindfulness.
And finally, exploring and observing is an integral part of my inspiration.
Applying for Exhibtions
I am currently working towards securing an exhibition/s and have a couple of application pending. Fingers crossed.
Am I an Artist?
Call yourself an artist and own it! A successful artist friend of mine told me this, when I asked ‘Am I am artist?’
Building Your Artistic Voice
As a self taught artist I have built my artistic voice through experimenting, observing and practice.
Trying new techniques and materials and using available resources. And practice is really important.
Not everything I produce will be a ‘masterpiece’ and that is perfectly fine.
Not everyone will like or appreciate your art, and that’s okay. Life is like that generally.
Knowing Who Do You Make Art For
It is important to remember why I am being creative in the first place – for me, my sense of purpose and well-being, or to appeal to others.
Have a go. Be bold, put yourself out there, take a leap.
This has been my approach. Successful in my career, the art world is completely new.
About the Artist
Denise Cox is an emerging artist based in the serene landscapes of Northern Tasmania who works mainly in acrylic and mixed media.
Her recent work has been described as dramatic and powerful, harnessing energy and beauty and conveying this to the viewer.
Painting for Denise is a happy and safe place.
A space where she has the freedom to express herself through colour, shapes and textures.
Her art not only reflects her personal journey but also resonates with those who seek connection and meaning through creativity.
Follow the Denise on Facebook and Instagram for her latest works, explorations and exhibition news.
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Belinda is doing a great job creating a professional looking artist hub online. Check out the profile I posted recently to see how well she does them. To all my artist friends let’s help make this THE go to place to discover local artists.
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Artist Profile Stories
I want there to be more arts and crafts in our world, in our communities and in our own lives. Hopefully you’ve found this blog post inspiring and interesting.
So I’m creating, with your help, Art Trails Tasmania, allowing all of us who feel this love to create more of it.
And the Art Trails Tasmania blog is a key part of making this happen, telling the stories of members. It’s about what they have happening with workshops and classes, exhibitions, open studio trails, where to find their outlets, markets, fairs and festivals so you can shop their creations as well as their art and craft retreats.
Also being shared are the supporters of our artists, the galleries, shops, cafes, art societies and groups, places to stay and artist in residencies.
