- Sep 10
- 4 min read

Studio News - September 2024

gel printing plate and paints and roller

Who doesn't love a bit of Magic?

Wow, what a week it's been!

When the mundane stuff is done, the floor is swept, the paintings are on the wall, and I can see through the windows properly for the first time since last October, the waiting begins.

The reality of opening my studio doors to visitors feels like dropping a rock in a pond. Will there be a big splash, or gentle ripples or will the rock sink without a trace? Will I sit here all week, surrounded by my preparations with just the birdsong for company?

You wonder about all these things as the clock ticks past 10 am on the first day. The flag has staked a claim on the nature strip outside and is billowing gently in the breeze, promising to catch the attention of passersby, of which there aren't many out in the bush, slightly off the beaten track.

But come they did.

Bringing a magical concoction of energy, enthusiasm, a desire to see and understand and talk about what I do in my studio for the other 51 weeks of the year.

It's been the most incredible week of conversation about just about everything:

my process; printmaking tips and tricks; collage; painting surfaces; framing systems; colour; Klimt; Hundertwasser; Klee; the Fauvists; living in the bush; gum trees; Sugar Gliders; life stories; motherhood; marketing; the importance of creative play; being bitten by a Koala once upon a time as I was trying to rescue it from a fence; travel; landscapes of all kinds; where inspiration comes from; being part of the Early Riser Club (for those of us up at the crack of dawn every day); printmaking; farming; paints and mediums; hill walking and mountain climbing; brushes and tools; running a small business; bushfires; Minties and Redskins and the merits of each; seeing your child go off to University; how to reason with a 12 year old; and perhaps most randomly of all, how best to clean your shower screen.

With each and every conversation, not only have I learned more about the diversity of people who love art, both those who love to make and create it and those who love to look upon it and collect it, but these chats have reminded me about that most magical thing of all - passion.

Talking with so many people over the course of Open Studios has made me realise I'm not alone in having a great deal of passion for something - in my case art.

It's something I don't think about on a daily basis as I'm working away in the studio. The idea of passion brings with it a sense of fervour, which isn't present in my day-to-day doings. Mostly I just potter along, doing what I do, working my way through ideas and concepts, sketches, paintings and prints with a kind of systematic application of the mind.

But all my visitors this year have prompted me to remember the passion that I have for my work. To them it's been obvious as they've walked through the studio door.

This reminder has been a gift.

One that every visitor has brought me this week.

And it won't go to waste, I've bottled this magical potion of external energy, enthusiasm and passion and it'll keep me topped up until this time next year.

So, what can I say?

Other than a truly heartfelt thank you to all for coming along and supporting my passion with your kind and lovely words, purchases big and small, and for leaving enduring ripples of positive energy and a beautiful sense of connection in your wake.

We've had such wonderful weather this week I thought I'd make the most of it and do a short virtual studio tour for those not able to pop in in person, so you can get a feel for my space (and the glorious sunshine), and see this years exhibition of work.

Watch my Studio Visit Video

Charlotte Wensley art studio doorway and plants

FLOURISH, is an upcoming group exhibition, at Brunswick St.Gallery in Melbourne, that invites the viewer to immerse themselves in the vibrant beauty of nature as it bursts forth in the eagerly anticipated arrival of spring. Spring brings a sense of revival and awakening as temperatures rise, nature renews, and life returns. It's a transition from the cold dormancy of winter to the vibrant activity of growth and renewal.

This show brings you work that captures the essence of the season, showcasing a kaleidoscope of botanical compositions that represent the joy of being in the garden and embracing the great outdoors. From delicate petals dancing in the breeze to fertile gardens teeming with an abundant harvest, each artwork celebrates the rejuvenating power of springtime. Let the allure of ‘Flourish’ awaken your senses and inspire a deep appreciation for the wondrous world of spring in all its splendour.

Opening Event: Friday 4 October 6–8PM

All welcome!

So until next month, enjoy the onset of spring (if you're Down Under) and if you're heading for autumn in the Northern Hemisphere where the days are starting to shorten and there's a chill in the air - I'm sending you sunshiney creative vibes to get you through the month!