Forty-two artists are showcased in their unique studio spaces as part of a new book capturing the legacy of Sunshine Coast based artists and their creative spaces by Lake Macdonald photographer Christine Hall.
Christine’s relationship with these artists grew through her initial work photographing their finished works for various art competitions, giclee prints and programs for exhibitions, but as she came to know the artists and their spaces, she realised their creative space was as unique as the work they are creating.
“The studios where many of the artists work are so unique and central to their type of creative practice. Photographing the artist at work, in the process of creating, is as unique as the art they are creating and this hasn’t really been featured this way before,” Ms Hall said.
“There is a whole generation of artists on the coast who are creating amazing bodies of work, whether they be emerging or established artists. ‘The Studio Project’ is capturing both intimate and special moments with the artists, as well as documenting what the Sunshine Coast arts scene is fostering at this moment in time,” she said.
The book features their work, their studio, their portrait and a QR code to their audio.
Many of the artists featured are creating works in direct relation to their natural and built environment around them across various parts of the Sunshine Coast – beach, hinterland, found objects, responses to change – are all featured in the book.
Peter Hudson, an established landscape and portrait painter based in Maleny who has previously been an Archibald Prize finalist with a portrait of Paul Kelly, and the Brisbane Portrait Prize Finalist in 2021 and 2024, said being part of ‘The Studio Project’ is an honour.
“There is such a variety and depth of artists who are busy at work creating in typically private environments. This allows viewers a unique peek into the process of creation and lends a deeper insight into the creative process,” Mr Hudson said.
Artists featured in the book are – Stefan Dunlop, Veronica Cay, Gabrielle Jones, Lauren Jones, Pam Walpole, Colin Pennock, Jess Le Clerc and many more.
‘The Studio Project’ is currently open for pre-orders via myphotomotion.com.au/shop/studio-project but will be officially launched at CA Gallery, 5/43 Access Crescent, Coolum Beach on Saturday 23 November 4-6pm. Coinciding with an exhibition of the 42 artists current works from 18 November – 10 December.
