Ruby Bay artist Jenny Ferrier’s adventurous journey continues this year with an exciting watercolour workshop, a painting retreat alongside her favorite Australian artist, and the fulfillment of her long-held dream—publishing a book.
What first sparked your interest in art and sketching?
Growing up in Auckland, I was inspired by a neighbor’s charcoal sketches. Their beauty captivated me and motivated me to pick up sketching, which became a lasting passion.
How did your travels as an international sailor influence your artistic style?
Sailing allowed me to connect deeply with nature, especially the ocean. Sketching during my travels gave me a unique perspective and a love for capturing the ever-changing light and colours of the sea. It also gave me some downtime as competition is mentally and physically demanding.
What role did your interior design diploma play in shaping your art?
Studying sketching, colour, and art history during my diploma broadened my artistic foundation. It was a good I did special effects, so I was painting feature walls and textures. It enhanced my understanding of composition and color theory, which I now bring into my watercolors.
How has nature, especially the ocean, influenced your artwork?
Nature, particularly the ocean, is central to my work. The way light dances on water and the vibrant colours of the natural world inspire me to create pieces that evoke a sense of calm and balance.
What do you hope viewers feel when they see your art?
I want my work to promote wellbeing and delight, offering viewers a sense of balance and dynamic equilibrium through light and colour.
Looking forward to 2025, you will be publishing a book of impressions of Nelson Tasman Landscapes. What inspired you to publish a book of your paintings this year, and what can readers expect from it?
Creating a book has been a dream of mine to share my artistic journey and the beauty of the natural world in a more personal way. It has been a goal of mine sharing stories and connecting subjects and matter. It will feature my favorite works, stories behind the paintings, and reflections on how light, colour, and nature influence my creativity.
Can you share more about your recent creative achievements?
I completed a three-year diploma in Art and Creativity through The Learning Connection in Wellington in 2022, which deepened my skills and artistic voice. I continue to explore my creative journey at my Ruby Bay studio.
What was it like exhibiting your work internationally in Thailand, Hong Kong, and Nelson?
Each exhibition was a unique experience. Sharing my work with diverse audiences helped me grow as an artist and brought invaluable feedback and inspiration from different cultures. I like vibrant colours like monks gowns. I love gild work, and making screens using goldleaf.
You are heading to the Watercolour Watermark 50th Birthday Paintaway & Gathering, tell us more?
I’m excited to attend this celebration and gathering in Blenheim. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow artists, exchange ideas, and create together.
You've also got a trip planned later year. What excites you about training with John Lovett who is the artist tutor?
John Lovett’s approach to watercolors is dynamic and inspiring. I’m looking forward to learning new techniques and refining my style under his guidance.
And lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring artists?
Don't focus on the outcome, focus on the process. Artist's fall into the trap of making for a commercial value, and lose the connection to their spiritual practice. If they are only making art to sell, then the artwork becomes like paint by numbers.
I encourage you to stay curious and open to learning. Explore different mediums, be inspired by nature, and always aim to express your unique perspective. Art is a journey, not a destination.
And if you do have a break for family and work commitments, and come back to it, sometimes you can lose your confidence, so persevere.
Photo supplied.
