Artist Bio: Lorraine Kay

Artist Bio - Lorraine Kay

Lorraine Kay is a self- taught artist, discovering her passion for illustration and painting as a child. Lorraine’s artistic journey commenced in earnest at the age of 10, after her father gifted her oil paints and books.  Hours spent independently studying styles and techniques of her favourite artists, Monet, Ferdinand Bauer and Sir Arthur Streeton, her tutors. Although studying art at school and college Lorraine preferred an independent journey fostering her dual skill set of floral drawing and landscapes. Research and discovery her mode of learning, constantly experimenting with style and colour. Lorraine credits finely honed drawing skills to dedicating free time sketching, filling oodles of pages with art. During her teenage years, she found inspiration in renowned artist Joshua Smith, who lived near her grandmother and became a mentor in nurturing her passion for art.

Lorraine’s work is shaped by her appreciation for beauty and fascination with colour. She mainly works in watercolour, capturing florals and landscapes inspired by nature-especially, North Queensland’s vibrant scenery and the changing moods of the ocean. Her gardens in Bondi and Port Douglas provide both inspiration and subjects for her floral paintings. Lorraine often photographs and sketches from her own images allowing the essence of each subject guide her artistic style. 

Her process involves building up the story through colour layers, reflecting her early oil painting skills.

Lorraine feels a deep connection with the natural world. Her belief:” Nature, has its own spirit and speaks to my soul. Art provides the perfect vehicle to communicate these messages.  My mission is to bring this divine conversation, a moment in time, captured forever in watercolour. A piece of love in each artwork.”

My Influences

As an artist I'm influenced by the beauty of the natural world.Exploring styles and choosing the one to best express the message that is inate in each  aspect of nature. Studying art and art history has informed my work. Especially, the Australian masters, impressionists as well as the simplicity of Japanese art . Travel also broadens my knowledge and assists with my development as an artist.