A passion for local producers
REFLECTING on her childhood, artist Laura Holland shares that her mother was a sign writer and would provide her with paper alongside textas and crayons as a source of creative entertainment.
When she was 10 years of age, Laura was mentored by renowned local artist Peter Mortimore who would teach her how to paint and draw precisely using intricate techniques.
Transitioning to high school, she studied art courses throughout her years and was presented the opportunity to showcase her piece in Artexpress.
Her family also owned a picture framing art supply business so she would get the opportunity of learning new products and experiments with techniques.
With her creative upbringing and passion towards originality, it was evident that Laura wanted to pursue art.
Opening Creative Fusion gallery in October 2021, Laura says the gallery has been incredibly successful and she has a lot of upcoming projects throughout the year.
“I worked in real estate for 10 years and art was always something I kept as a sideline with creating my own works and commissioning pieces,” she says, adding that having her own studio developed from a passion for promoting local art and creative pursuits.
Laura tells Dubbo Photo News that after having her daughter Logan, she reassessed how she wanted to spend her time – ultimately transitioning her career path.
Prior to opening the current gallery, she established Creative Fusion as a pop-up instalment run by volunteers, but she knew that was not a sustainable business model for the foreseeable future.
Inspired by the local art fair held by the Western Plains Cultural Centre last year, Laura says it was an identifier that people had an interest in locally produced art.
“I think now more than ever there is a strong pool for original art that is not just a mass-produced print from a furniture shop which every second house might have.”
People want to see and purchase local art, and she says artists capture the importance of personality and intimacy in a piece itself – not for the aim of matching a couch.
“You want art that will draw you in and allow you to tell a story of how and where you found it,” she says, pointing out that original works of art hold more longevity.
Laura has art in her home that she purchased for certain reasons and “every time I look at it – it triggers a certain memory”. She also understands that everyone has varied taste, so she tries to represent that in her gallery.
“I have artwork, jewellery, jams, chutney, local authors and other creators who enjoy the space and have a passion for local work.
“It’s really important to have a space where both locals and tourists can visit which encompasses the best of what locals have to offer.
“The past two years have been tumultuous, but people are starting to purchase local and keep money generated in our local economy,” she says, pointing out that buying from living and local artists supports another family too.
Laura shares that she still actively creates her own pieces with a passion for native Australian flora and fauna.
She does not have a theme of what her art depicts however she gravitates towards acrylics and oils for more intricate details.
“I’ve developed a skill over time to paint whatever I’m drawn to,” she says, explaining that the principle of drawing stays the same.
Laura mentions that artists often see the pieces other creators are producing and mimic techniques, but it is obvious that it is not personal.
“Passion shines through in what is created and sometimes it is really hard to get creative,” she continues, stating for six months of the past year she would walk into her studio and walk out.
She believes every artist needs to be in the right frame of mind to produce quality work.
“Creatively is not something that can be turned on and off,”