RITA OAKLEY
		Artist's Statement When it comes to the creation of art whether painting or sculpture, I want to do everything at once. I want to experiment with new concepts and be free of intellectualisation that for me only introduces barriers and preconceived notions. Yet, at the same time I find myself drawn to the human form and all the classical images gleaned during my experience of life. I am now on a journey with clay as my conveyance, it is exciting and I thoroughly enjoy all the twists and turns that emerge along the way. Art History I was always interested in art but only dabbled occasionally throughout the 70’s and 80’s, producing work I was happy with at the time but that now to me seems inhibited. I began a new era of artistic expression in 1997 when I sought out technical guidance and stumbled upon inspirational local artist Lucja Ray who set me on the road of discovery. New artistic freedom developed as I experimented with styles, mediums and subject matter and a love affair with colour was born. I first exhibited in the Paradise Art Awards at the God Coast Art Center. I entered one painting, which was sold. I joined the Royal Queensland Art Society in 1998 and quickly became involved and was nominated to run for the position of Secretary, a position I held for 3 years and gained much from the experience. As a member of the Royal Qld Art Society, I participated in several exhibitions. A founding member of the "Science Art Festival" committee. Hung works in the Festivals "Exhibition 2000". Exhibited in the "Tropicarnival Open Art Prize". Commended for works on paper, Royal Qld Art Society, Brisbane. The year 2000 was a milestone on my journey holding a two-man exhibition with my daughter Samantha; we were delighted with the reception of our work. Later that year Samantha, artist friend Pat I ‘Anson and myself were invited to hold an exhibition in Brisbane at the Royal Queensland Society Gallery. "EXHIBITION TWO3"This also included my very first sculptures. Having got my fingers dirty with clay, I couldn’t leave the stuff alone and again, began a journey of discovery. I needed to find the best way to tackle this medium and found myself at the Gold Coast Potters Association’s branch at Mudgeeraba under the guidance of Lyn Russell. 2002 I exhibited in the Gold Coast Potters Association Students Exhibition. The "Silver Anniversary Exhibition" of the Gold Coast Potters’ Association was held over December 2002/January 2003 and I was very pleased to gain the Ruth Lyons Award. durrandell@yahoo.com.au Gallery of Work (Click on thumbnail to view enlarged image)