artist kirra jamison

Kirra Jamison is a relative newcomer on the Australian art scene. (She graduated from the Queensland College of Art with First Class Honours in 2006.) However, she is fast making a name for herself. She has held six solo exhibitions, had her work featured in magazines such as Vogue Living and Belle, and the latest issue of Inside Out includes one of her artworks as a giveaway to readers. Kirra will exhibit at the Sophie Gannon Gallery in Melbourne from 19 April.

Which five words best describe you? Small, scruffy, mismatched, surprisingly-organised.

How did you get your career start and what path have you taken since? The beginning of my career coincided with leaving art school. My final university examination was also my first solo exhibition and this was in a commercial gallery - Ryan Renshaw Gallery. That was October 2006. The show sold well and that enabled me to rent a small studio and work full time on painting. Around this time I got a scholarship to live and study in America. Since moving back to Australia I have been living and working in Melbourne. I'm about to have my sixth solo exhibition which kind of blows my mind.

What’s the best lesson you’ve learnt along the way? Inspiration comes not while you're waiting around for it but while you're working... so get crackin.

What’s your proudest career achievement? This exhibition. Definitely.

What’s been your best decision? Getting a dog.

Who inspires you? Lately... Emilio Pucci.

What are you passionate about? I try to be conscious of the impact my lifestyle choices make on my environment. I'm passionate about not using toxic chemicals in my home and work place. I'm passionate about eating food that has been grown without the use of pesticides. I believe in sustainable farming practices and I feel strongly about supporting small businesses and my local economy.

Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? I'd love to spend a week in the studio with the late Charley Harper.

What dream do you still want to fulfil? Owning a big house by the sea.

What are you reading? An object of beauty by Steve Martin... though I have to confess I am listening to it rather than reading it.

images courtesy of kirra jamison, portrait dan mahon