Meg Frances
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
Hi, I'm Meg, and I currently live in Brisbane, surrounded by the bush, with my husband, three kids and puppy. I paint from my home studio (aka the kids’ playroom), where I am often joined by my three small ‘artist assistants’ who enjoy offering their very honest opinions! They also love working alongside me on their own painting projects or terrorising me by playing all manner of indoor sports or block constructions around my easel!
After a number of years as a schoolteacher and time having kids, I took up painting again more seriously in 2021 and am so excited to be sharing something that brings me so much joy!
I predominantly paint still life florals or fruit from my home garden, and have a special love for Australian native wildflowers, arranged with interesting textiles and ceramics. I have recently started experimenting with Australian country landscapes, inspired by farming friends who live in central Queensland. I am excited to explore this genre more!
I paint with acrylic on canvas and layer colours, often painting thickly, to create dimension and texture to my pieces.
What is your favourite drink?
I’m a sucker for a good old cup of tea! I usually have a couple going around the place as I get distracted and forget about it! I’ve had to start using an insulated travel mug when I paint, so as not to always be faced with cold tea – the worst!
What inspired you to start painting/drawing?
I have always been passionate about painting and have loved being creative since a young age. I remember painting gifts for my family since I was little (and I still do, for those who aren’t over it yet)! My late sister was probably my biggest inspiration, as she could pick up a brush and paint or draw anything. She had an amazing eye for anything beautiful and taught me how to look out for beauty in the everyday of life.
How can we support you?
Encouragement is key. It’s not always easy to paint everyday and in a world saturated with new and different it’s easy to get lost. Oh, and you can also buy my art!
What advice would you give other artists/creatives starting out?
Good things take time. Paint a little, often. Easier said than done sometimes, but you’ll gradually find your style and groove. But don’t be too afraid to change this either! Be prepared to make mistakes, enjoy the process, and always be learning and asking questions!
You can see more of Meg’s work here.