Bronwyn Tracey
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
A happy North Central Victorian, I love to walk, notice and photograph native birds - so that I can recreate them in art! I trained in pencil drawing as a child, but I find myself increasingly drawn to experiment. I use pen, watercolour, acrylic, gouache, recycled metal and wire, and even rocks. If a surface looks like it can be improved with a bird, I’m in!
After decades of setting art aside, lockdown in 2020 inspired me to slow down, take stock, and make space for the mindful escape that creating provides. Compelled to take bold steps, a website and Instagram account began so that I could share my bird obsession with others. My work is largely realist, but I dream of letting go and exploring different means of expression!
What is your favourite drink?
As a rare non-tea, non-coffee drinker, all I’m really left with is water and the occasional Milo… I did ‘teach’ myself to appreciate peppermint tea a few years ago, just to feel a little more adult in social situations. It’s probably time to just embrace my lack of drink preferences, as I have embraced my art practice!
What inspired you to start painting/photography/drawing?
According to my father, I’ve always drawn. Back in the day, it was horses, horses, horses! My dad also taught me the joy of amateur photography, before digital. After school, art was sporadic - doodling in my uni notes, random life drawing classes. Working in education, I enjoyed drawing for and with children, but rarely made time for my own art at home.
The early lockdowns of 2020 presented an opportunity to create, which quickly became a need. That need has yet to diminish, as I’m a creature of habit. Art is now a routine (albeit an enjoyable one) that I must adhere to feel satisfied and enriched. I had developed an interest in local native birdlife, and love to draw what I see, so my bird art began.
What advice would you give other artists/creatives starting out?
Given I still consider myself “starting out” - my advice is as much for myself as for others. Take small steps at first. Learn from others, watch and listen. Give yourself time to settle in and enjoy, before pushing yourself to take bigger steps. Then lean into your nerves and push a bit further. See what happens.
I am a shy person who loathes being the centre of attention. A lifelong desire to avoid exposure, and a lack of self-belief, has been hard to overcome when promoting my artwork. However, I find it easier the more I try. I draw, I love it and if someone else loves it too, fabulous! If not, it doesn’t take away from the satisfaction I had in creating it. And sometimes, the pieces I don’t rate are the ones that someone else likes. You never know!
You can read more about Bronwyn Tracey here.