Meet Tasmanian Artist Jacquelyn Mansell
The greatest joy in my art comes from the profound connection between myself, the subject, and the viewer.
Immersing myself in the landscapes and wildlife of Lutruwita (Tasmania) allows me to translate the island’s raw beauty onto canvas.
This process is deeply meditative, enabling me to capture not just the visual essence but the spirit of the subject.
When viewers resonate with my work, feeling the same awe and reverence for Tasmania’s environment, it fulfils my purpose as an artist.
The Diversity & Authenticity of Tasmania
Tasmania’s diverse and unspoiled landscapes are a constant source of inspiration. The island’s unique interplay of light and shadow, its rugged coastlines, dense forests, and endemic wildlife offer endless subjects to explore.
The rich history of artists like John Glover, William Piguenit, Eugene Von Guerard also influences my work, motivating me to capture the island’s essence as they once did.
An Artistic Journey Leading to Tasmania
My artistic journey began 30 years ago like most in school. However, life and obligation took me on a different path, leading to 28 years in the corporate world.
My move to Tasmania and meeting my now husband, Tasmanian Aboriginal artist Andrew Mansell, rekindled my passion for painting.
The Unique Wildlife and Breathtaking Landscapes of Tasmania
The island’s breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife stirred something within me, compelling me to pick up the brush once more.
This evolved into a full-time commitment, as I felt an undeniable pull to capture and share the beauty of Lutruwita through my art, hoping to highlight causes close to my heart such as preserving the big trees, the wildlife and our pristine wilderness.
An Art Studio in Tasmania
My art studio is my little sanctuary nestled along the windswept coast of Devonport, Tasmania.
Surrounded by the very landscapes that inspires my work, it offers a quiet focussed environment conducive for creativity.
The space is filled with my photography as reference, art books, objects from nature like rocks, shells, timber, feathers, animal skulls, skins – all essential for capturing the true colours and nuances of my subjects.
The studio is now where we also make paints so I’ve since expanded into the house with another french cleat wall and lighting system installed, both my husband and I paint here.
The Versatility of Oil Paints
Oil painting is my primary medium, chosen for its rich textures and depth of colour.
My initial exposure to oils during high school left a bad impression, but upon returning to art, I gravitated back to this medium with a desire to paint like the old masters.
The versatility of oil paints allows me to capture the intricate details and atmospheric qualities of Tasmania’s landscapes and wildlife.
Additionally, creating my own paints through our company Palawa Pigments has deepened my connection to the medium, colour theory and the nuances and characters of each pigment.
The Privilege of Teaching Final Art Oil Painting
With my husband Andrew Mansell, I have had the privilege of teaching fine art oil painting to both the Aboriginal community on the northwest coast of Tasmania and members of the Devonport community.
These workshops focus on classical techniques, aiming to empower students to begin painting in oils, and give them the building blocks and confidence to create their own master pieces.
Witnessing students, many of whom are new to painting, find their passion and go on to continue painting is incredibly rewarding.
En Plein Air Painting in Tasmania
As challanging as it can be, en plein air painting is an integral part of my process.
It allows me to capture the immediate essence and atmosphere of a scene, providing valuable reference material for studio work.
It fosters a deeper connection with the subject, enabling me to observe nuances that might be overlooked in photographs.
Authenticity and Spirit
This practice ensures that my paintings convey the authenticity and spirit of the Tasmanian landscapes and wildlife.
Nurturing the Creative Muse in Tasmania
Nurturing my creative muse involves immersing myself in the natural beauty of Tasmania.
Regular walks, observing the changing light and seasons, and spending time in solitude allow me to connect deeply with my surroundings.
Additionally, studying the works of both historical and contemporary artists provides inspiration and new perspectives.
I love Rembrandt, John Glover, William Piguenit, Eugene von Guérard, Albert Bierstadt, Edgar Payne, and John Singer Sargent and more modern artists Carl Rungius, Tasmania’s Val Whatley, and realist oil painter Andrew Tischler.
Exhibiting Artist
My first upcoming exhibition at the Nolan Gallery in Hobart—scheduled for February 2026—marks a significant milestone in my art journey.
The collection will feature a series of new works exploring Tasmania’s varied landscapes and unique wildlife and will be shared with the poetry and art of my husband Andrew Mansell .
Calendar of Exhibitions at Kinimathatakinta/ George Town
It is exhibition time to head to Kinimathatakinta/ George Town for this season of inspiring and thought provoking exhibitions featuring Tasmanian artists!
Beginner’s Course in Botanical Art with Lynda Young
Be sure to be part of this free botanical art 6 week UA3 course with Lynda Young so you can capture the joys of nature.
How to Make the Most of Entering Exhibitions Like the Incognito Art Show
Discover how to make the most of the opportunity of entering the Incognito Art Show so you can grow your Artist Profile, find new supporters and buyers and flourish!
How to Flourish Financially and Creatively with Markets and Fairs Part 1
In Part 1 of our series we look at how markets and fairs can be a great way to bring in money and grow creatively.
En Plein Air Painting in Tasmania
As challanging as it can be, en plein air painting is an integral part of my process.
It allows me to capture the immediate essence and atmosphere of a scene, providing valuable reference material for studio work.
It fosters a deeper connection with the subject, enabling me to observe nuances that might be overlooked in photographs.
Authenticity and Spirit
This practice ensures that my paintings convey the authenticity and spirit of the Tasmanian landscapes and wildlife.
Nurturing the Creative Muse in Tasmania
Nurturing my creative muse involves immersing myself in the natural beauty of Tasmania.
Regular walks, observing the changing light and seasons, and spending time in solitude allow me to connect deeply with my surroundings.
Additionally, studying the works of both historical and contemporary artists provides inspiration and new perspectives.
I love Rembrandt, John Glover, William Piguenit, Eugene von Guérard, Albert Bierstadt, Edgar Payne, and John Singer Sargent and more modern artists Carl Rungius, Tasmania’s Val Whatley, and realist oil painter Andrew Tischler.
Exhibiting Artist
My first upcoming exhibition at the Nolan Gallery in Hobart—scheduled for February 2026—marks a significant milestone in my art journey.
The collection will feature a series of new works exploring Tasmania’s varied landscapes and unique wildlife and will be shared with the poetry and art of my husband Andrew Mansel.
Being An Artist is As Much About Business as Creating
I wish I had known earlier that being an artist is as much about business as it is about creating. Success doesn’t come from talent alone—it requires planning, persistence, and clear communication.
Maria Brophy’s book Art Money Success was pivotal, helping me realise that valuing my work is not about ego, but about respect—for my time, materials, and the stories I tell.
And I wouldn’t be here today without guidance from my husband Andrew Mansell and also art mentor Andrew Tischler.
Hearing Transformative Advice
“Make space for stillness.” That advice transformed how I approach both life and art.
Creativity isn’t a force to be pushed; it flows best when given room to breathe.
Living a creative life isn’t about constant output—it’s about being present, observant, curious and open to wonder.
When you’re in the flow state, that’s when the magic happens!
The Power of Practice with Purpose
Practice with Purpose – Regular painting, especially from life, is essential.
Every brushstroke is a lesson.
Study the Masters – Learning from the techniques of Rembrandt, Glover, and Sargent has shaped my own.
Seek Constructive Feedback – A trusted mentor or peer can help you grow more in a month than years alone.
Let the ego go and make mistakes, learn from them, accept feedback and grow.
Growth happens at the edge of your comfort zone—through patience, curiosity, and honest self-reflection.
Making Paint in Tasmania
Making paint has transformed my relationship with my materials.
Through Palawa Pigments, co-founded with my husband Andrew, we create artist-quality paints from ochres and minerals.
It’s a slow, grounding process that deepens my connection to the land.
The pigments carry the memory of the places they come from—turning each painting into something more than image: a collaboration with earth, place, and story.
It reminds me that art doesn’t begin at the easel — it begins at the source.
15 Ways to Reignite Your Creative Practice and Thrive Part 2
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Meet the Vibrant, Active and Friendly West Tamar Art Group
Come meet the West Tamar Art Group, a vibrant community where artists & makers connect, create, & showcase their work in Tasmania’s stunning West Tamar region.
About the Artist
Jacquelyn Mansell is a self-taught fine art oil painter based in Devonport, Tasmania.
Deeply inspired by the landscapes and wildlife of Lutruwita, her work reflects a classical sensibility shaped by old masters like Glover and Rembrandt.
Jacquelyn co-founded Palawa Pigments with her husband Andrew Mansell, creating handmade paints from Tasmanian minerals.
Her paintings are quiet reflections on place, presence, and the natural world.
She will present a major exhibition at the Nolan Gallery in Hobart in February 2026.
Follow the Jacquelyn on Facebook and Instagram for her upcoming workshops and exhibitions. Be sure to explore the creatively inspiring treasures of Palawa Pigments, with the latest releases shared in their newsletter!
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Join the growing, supportive artists community today and have your Artist story told here.
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.
You won’t regret joining Art Trails Tasmania . It’s a welcoming community for creatives at any career stage.Becoming an Art Trails Tasmania member wasn’t a hard decision for me to make as it’s such a wealth of knowledge and support.Being member provides a quality way to showcase your creative endeavours and it’s quickly growing in reach.
We operate a home based picture framing business and recently joined Art Trails Tasmania as a means to giving us exposure to the wider artist community. We have almost immediately seen increase in activity thru our online sites, which I am certain will lead to more opportunities to grow our business.
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.
