Oil Painting

Fiona Thorning

Fiona Thorning is a painter located in Redcliffe, Queensland.

Artist Profile

Fiona Thorning is a painter located in Redcliffe, Queensland. Fiona has had a long career with Art Education and has gained significant experience in production ceramics and graphic design. She started painting full time in 2022 and is devoted to the daily practice and refinement of her work.

Fiona trained at Queensland College of Art, majoring in Printmaking, Sculpture, Ceramics and Photography. She went on to obtain Secondary School Teaching certification and taught at several Brisbane High Schools.

Fiona has always loved painting and has produced a few each year since her teens. She started painting full time in 2022. Fiona enjoys the challenge of Realism Painting to explore an authentic portrayal of her everyday life. Her work encompasses detailed portraits, landscapes, still life, and everyday scenes. Perspective tends to be traditional. Fiona doesn’t strive for photorealism, but she definitely employs a degree of realistic accuracy.

Artist Interview

What medium do you work with, and why have you chosen them?

Having worked with printmaking and ceramics for many years I found myself finally able to devote time to painting. I paint with both acrylic and oils on stretched canvas. I enjoy the ease of application and bright colour of acrylics. The buttery consistency of oil paint is new to me and I am enjoying working in this medium.

How does your artwork get from initial concept to exhibition stage?

I have participated in several group shows over the past 2 years. Usually there has been a common theme for artists to work to. I am able to draw upon my experience with creating personal responses to specific themes. Generally, I work thematically and will create a suite of works about whatever I am currently interested in. These interests are always personal and about my life and environment. I particularly like still life as it is a readymade subject, and I am able to use objects from my personal collections of vintage fabrics and objects.

Can you tell us a little more about your creative working environment/studio?

I have a small studio space with great light at the front of my home. The studio opens to my front deck which overlooks a wonderful park full of birds, koalas and occasionally people playing cricket or relaxing. I am 5 minutes away from the waterfront with wonderful views of Moreton Bay.