Meet IAVA member Pilar Helmers. We asked Pilar a few questions about her art practice.
What was your earliest memory of an interaction with Art?
I enjoyed collecting rocks, moss, shells, flowers, stones and feathers and setting them out and placing them together so they could be admired – (I still do this!).
How would you describe your art practice? (Media; influences, approach?)
I am an oil painter on board and photographer, producing larger works. My approach is to create a series of artworks around a theme. I do not produce work in the same style and use many different styles and brush techniques. When painting I do not necessarily know what style I will use, until I start, and oftentimes to achieve what I want I need to experiment and master the style first, or as I progress. I have no idea why this occurs. Basically the rendering of the work must appeal to me aesthetically and simply look and feel ‘’right’. Between series I often return to a series of still life’s which I enjoy. Using photography I explore small details and textures, up close, creating worlds that in spite of being photographic realism and not recognizable and appear more abstract. Main influences have been Romantic art, such as Turner, Post Impressionism particularly Cezanne and Rousseau and Abstract Impressionism such as Rothko. I admire the genre of still life painting and artists such as Morandi and Van Gogh. Australian artists such as Hossein Valamanesh, Clarice Beckett, Bronwyn Oliver and many Australian landscape artists are also an inspiration.
Do you have a favourite artist/s or artwork? What is it that makes it/them your favourite?
Turner – a genius. His rendering of light, use of colour, his skill to let go of structure late in his career to produce luminosity and the scale and inspiring content. Still life painting of Morandi creating such calm, delicacy and whimsy from inanimate objects; as if they almost had personality and something to say. Becket’s street scenes, producing atmospheric worlds. All of these features appeal to me.
Most recent adventure or achievement?
Very happy with a recent still life of ancient roman tear catchers or lachrymatory bottles (pictured in her studio).
Any current goals you’re working towards?
Looking for a small group of other artists locally to share a studio space on weekends. Getting into regular practice on the weekends to put together series’ of work to approach overseas galleries. Entering art prizes and exhibiting with IAVA!!
I have a website which has more information and examples of work: https://pilarhelmers.com.au/
Pilar in her studio.