Artist Spotlight: Angela Hawkey

We chat to Angela about life, her art and being selected to be on The Block!

Tell us a bit about yourself…

I am Angie, wife of Grant, mum of two Ayla 16 and Javier 11 and our Japanese Spitz Kodi. I love all things creative, time with friends and family, good food, good wine. I am also a spiritual person and love to appreciate creation and what it tells me about its creator and designer Jehovah God, the first and best artist. I find the ocean and rocky headlands especially awe inspiring. I love walking around all the rockpools with the kids and discovering the little worlds of life within them.

Angela's Riddells Creek Macedon Ranges artwork stole the show in Scott Cam's Master Bathroom, sitting above the fireplace.

How long have you been producing your art?

I took an interest in art from grade 2 when a primary school teacher encouraged me with drawing the class book cover and decorating the black board with the seasons. I was a very shy kid and art helped build my confidence. I did well in art throughout school and then studied graphic design to be "practical". I have always produced art in some form be it, ceramics, photography or painting.

The gorgeous Madolyn Canvas has been a poular piece for Angela.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

From all around me. Things I remember, things I see, nature, photographs, self-expression, things I imagine, colour.

How would you describe your art?

I would describe my style as joyful, colourful, expressive and textured. Over time ­my paint application has definitely become thicker and thicker. I love applying the thick buttery layers with a palette knife. I have also learnt to embrace painting in a fun and playful way rather than correcting things to look perfect. They have more personality and character to them this way. My art is definitely more varied than most, I love creating new things and variety so my works are always evolving.

Sharon and Ankur's Winning room featured Angela Hawkey's artwork Garden Walk 2.

Are there any particular artists that inspire you?

There are really too many to list, some that come to mind at the moment are Richard Claremont, Robert hagan, John William Waterhouse

Where do you like to create your art?

Downstairs at the front of my house I have a sunlit studio where I like to work.

Margarita Bliss one of our favourites here at The Block Shop!

Do you have a playlist / podcast you like to create to?

I actually enjoy painting in a quiet environment with no music, left to ponder and paint.

What does a typical day look like for you?

First thing: morning coffee! Planning commissions, new painting ideas, emails, messages etc., and then putting paint to canvas. Looking up hours later realising I haven’t had lunch, then back to painting, photography, listing art for sale, writing cards, filling out certificates of authenticity, tidying up roughly, and then getting ready for family time.

How do you fit your art around life/kids?/work- Any tips?

I think I struggle to juggle it all as much as anyone else but sometimes you just need to down tools and take a break when things aren't flowing or they are feeling out of balance. Taking a break and and enjoying some time in nature and with family usually brings things back into perspective.

Favourite holiday destination?

I love a rugged coastline. Some favourites have been, The Great Ocean Road, Phillip Island, Elliott Heads and Woody Heads.

Hardest person to buy a gift for?

Anyone I don't know well

What would you buy yourself from The Block Shop?

Most likely linen but I have eyed off some pretty awesome dining chairs.

Favourite house decorating trend?

I am liking the rattan furniture and some of the cozy colour schemes

Olive Branch by Angela Hawkey provides a stunning warmth to any room, we just love it and its Mediteranean vibes.

Most decadent thing in your house?

My fridge, I am addicted to the ice maker.

Favourite room in the house?

My art studio, it get the best morning light and warm winter sun.

Angela Hawkeys artworks are featured in The Block 2022 Treechange this year they really are such versatile artworks, they get the country house nod of approval.

If you could renovate one room in your house which would it be?

I could always use more room in my art space.

Have you built your own house?

Yes, we built a house with my father in law which is dual living with beautiful mountain views.

Favourite artwork you own?

A watercolour my Granddad painted

Know anyone else who hasn’t been featured on The Block but should be?

Michael Baker a local Gold Coast artist who doesn't know how talented he really is.

A perfect Sunday afternoon would be…. A long bike ride by the beach followed by yummy food, a movie and snuggles on the couch.

Shop Angela's work here.

Looking at investing in some beautiful art for your home, be sure to check out the 2022 Art Trends here.