Australian painter Wanda Comrie‘s passion for native plants shines through in her colorful still lifes. Living in the Margaret River region of Western Australia with her husband, two dogs, and a hen, Comrie is a self-taught painter with a background in graphic design.
With their realistic rendering, her observational compositions highlight the unique Australian light, primarily captured in handcrafted ceramics and glassware. Regarding her practice, she states: “By responding to the interplay of light and shadow in domestic scenes and local plants, I reflect on the beauty and complexity that everyday life can offer.”
Wanda Comrie draws inspiration for her oil paintings from observing the suggestive interplay of light and shadow filtering through windows and playing with plant leaves.
Inspired by the beauty and complexity of everyday life, the Australian artist creates realistic compositions, still lifes that, despite her years of study, retain a certain graphic influence.
Wanda Comrie is known for her vibrant still lifes of floral arrangements in unique, handmade containers. Bold yellows, deep purples, and vivid greens permeate each of her canvases. In this interview, Wanda shares the inspiration behind her work and explains how Instagram has become an essential tool in building her creative empire.
Tell us about your background and your creative beginnings.
I studied graphic design right after high school (a long time ago, back when Photoshop was still in its infancy!). I was disillusioned and didn’t think I’d acquired any particularly useful tools. I worked in the hospitality industry before having my first child. Throughout my studies, I was constantly creating something, whether it was cards, clothes, or flowerpots. Then I discovered oil painting and painting in a community course in a small rural town. After that, I was hooked. I entered small competitions and received positive feedback, which gave me a little more confidence to continue.
What led you to focus on painting still lifes, particularly flowers?
I started out painting fish and struggled to find my style. As I grew older, my interest in nature and gardening, along with observing the beautiful local plants, combined with the fabulous Australian sunshine, led me to paint our magnificent flora. I also have a real passion for handcrafted ceramics and often try to include my collection of handmade vessels in my compositions.
Can you tell us about your creative process and how you select your subjects?
I work from my own photos, as flowers tend to be ephemeral and the light is constantly changing. What’s in season might pique my interest, a find from an afternoon walk, or the harvest from the local protea farm. I pair the flowers I find with my collection of vases and containers, many of which are handmade by artisans I usually know through Instagram.
How has your work evolved over time?
I’d like to say I’ve loosened up, but I’ve probably tightened up! I’m constantly trying to accept my OCD, and a persistent voice in my head is pulling me in a different direction. I see colors better now, and with practice, I’m better at mixing them.
What impact has the pandemic had on your practice?
I work very much alone, so from that perspective, little has changed. But online traffic increased during this period, as did my business, and I’m very grateful for that.
What does a typical day in the studio look like for you?
If I have cut flowers, I photograph them in the morning, making the most of the light. If I have to pack my work to send, I usually procrastinate and hesitate, hoping to go to the post office later in the day. I paint for about eight hours a day, upstairs in my studio, between snacks, petting the dog, and chatting with the chickens in the garden.
How has Instagram impacted your career as an artist?
I can’t imagine my art practice without Instagram, as that’s where I sell my work. I joined Instagram about four years ago, and someone advised me to post once a day and be consistent. That really resonated with me and motivated me to create and post regularly. So I started creating and posting daily, which improved my skills. I spend way too much time on Instagram, but I love it, and I’ve now built a real community with regular collectors who keep coming back. I also enjoy chatting with people from all over the world, which breaks up my lonely days a bit.
What are your greatest achievements as an artist so far?
Almost every day, my husband and I marvel at having built a very profitable business in a relatively short time with loyal collectors from all over the world. The relationships I’ve cultivated through these exchanges will be lasting and far-reaching. My waiting list is long, and I continue to strive to do good work every day.
