WANDA COMRIE
ART + ILLUSTRATION
What do you do? I paint – mostly still life, and I’m very keen on botanicals. Oil paints are my favourite medium, but I also really love watercolours. When did you start? I first painted about 15 years ago and really loved it – the blending, smooshing the paint around, and the colours. Then life got in the way. I started painting with intention three years ago, when I realised the stress of a nine-to-five job wasn’t doing me any favours. What inspires you? Light. And stuff that grows. In the right light, everyone – including plants – is happier. The mood lifts; colours are brighter and more alive. Why did you enter the Good Stuff awards? I thought, “Why the hell not?” I’ve been a subscriber for years and am always inspired by the creatives I see. Maybe I could inspire someone who was just like me three years ago! Best piece of advice you’ve received? If you’re going to do it, do it properly. Advice from my dear dad. What are you working on right now? An album cover in watercolour. My daughter is recording her first album. Watch out for Holli Scott & the Rush Hour Circus! Do you have a day job? I work part-time in an art shop (but it’s like a lolly shop to me). It’s the best – I get to hang out with all the paints and colours and talk to other artists about their latest projects. One thing we should know about you? I make my own clothes, and have done most of my life. I always wanted different stuff to what you’d find in the shops, so I just made it. What does winning a Good Stuff award mean to you? Well, it sure is a big confidence booster to know that a fine creative man such as Jeremy decided I should win. What a trip! Biggest lesson you’ve learnt? To not expect to be good at something when you first start. The only way to get better is to do it over and over and put in the work, and believe in yourself. What’s your next goal? I’d love to share my skills with other creative folk and help them create. I’d also love to win the Archibald some time down the track. Where can we see your work? wandacomrie.com or on Instagram at @wandacomrie.
Art + illustration judge Jeremy Wortsman says: Wanda’s succulent painting immediately drew me in, and I loved absorbing the intricate nature of the work and getting lost in the richly organic and photo-real details. I was impressed to see how she drew upon her background as a graphic designer to create this entirely new body of work in a new medium.