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.

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 .

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.

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!