Meet Paola Birac, IAVA’s newest member. We asked Paola a few getting to know you questions.
What was your earliest memory of an interaction with Art?
My earliest memory of any art making was at school, where it immediately became the subject I looked forward to the most. Working with paint or any creative medium was something I was drawn to and loved.
How would you describe your art practice? (Media; influences, approach?)
Basically, I like to play with colour and form, creating artworks in an abstract style. I work intuitively allowing the marks to determine the direction of the artwork. I am constantly moving in and out of chaos, eliminating and rebuilding seeking a resolution. The endless possibilities and the challenges that are presented by this intuitive and instinctive approach, and the ‘unknowing’ of what will ensue provides enormous satisfaction.
Do you have a favourite artist and/or artwork? What is it that makes them your favourite?
There are many artists on my favourite’s list among them are the old masters like Van Gogh, Matisse, and the Fauvist movement, for their love and liberation of colour as well as Mondrian for being one of the great pioneers of the abstraction.
Elisabeth Cummings latest exhibition aptly named ‘Radiance’ was joy on canvas, and one I was looking forward to seeing. Aptly named “Radiance” it was joy on canvas, the interplay with abstraction, the light, the feelings evoked… loved every piece.
Most recent adventure or achievement?
My most recent achievement was coming second in this year’s Bryan& Robyn Carr Art Prize. It was wonderful recognition particularly amongst such strong entries.
Any current goals you’re working towards?
To keep producing art, and to keep growing as an artist and to be represented in more exhibitions. I am also keen to play with papier-mâché and weaving to create some small-scale objects.
