Abby McCahery

Tell us a little bit about you?
Originally from Scotland, I have been living in Australia since 2013. Having been an artist at heart my whole life and always been drawn to studying people and animals, I completed a diploma in portraiture at Heatherley’s School of fine art in London, Chelsea.

Since then, my style has evolved a lot into something that more suits my personality. My paintings are based on my reality, memories and dreams and I work with both oil and acrylic on canvas. I love working with a mixture of brushes and palettes knives to keep colours raw and vibrant, creating interesting textures.

Being a mother of two young boys keeps me inspired, seeing life through their eyes. It’s like reliving an extraordinary life of make believe which I use in my art.

What is your favourite drink?
My favourite drink without doubt is wine! Red, white or rose- all make me happy.

What inspired you to start painting?
I have been inspired to paint for as long as I can remember. Even at school, (a very long time ago) I remember doing portraits of my friends, their dogs, my dogs… Having lived in London and Bermuda, I gained many different experiences with my art and realise how therapeutic and regulating it is for me.

What advice would you give other artists/creatives starting out?
I would say if it doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to wipe it all out and start again. I have lost count of all the canvases I’ve painted over the years and it only adds to texture. At the same time, I too am only starting out so always open to advice!

You can read more about Abby McCahery here.