Acrylic Painting

Holly Eva

Holly Eva is a visionary contemporary artist celebrated for her minimalist abstract still life's and striking abstract figurative paintings.

Artist Profile

Holly Eva is a contemporary artist celebrated for her minimalist abstract still life’s and abstract figurative paintings, characterized by an intuitive, vibrant approach. Born in Camden and immersed in the surfing culture of Avoca Beach from age nine, Eva, now 48, creates daily from her studio at the Bulli Timbermill. Her work, both calming and exhilarating, reflects a profound connection to colour and an instinctive creative process.

Eva’s work has attracted a devoted international following and has been featured in exhibitions across Sydney and the south coast. Her art has appeared on Channel 9’s The Block Shop, My Kitchen Rules, Selling Houses Australia, and in Belle Magazine. She has exhibited in prestigious venues, participated in five Sydney art fairs, and counts NRL coach Trent Robinson and 2023 Australian of the Year Taryn Brumfitt among her collectors.

Guided by mentors like Amanda Penrose Hart, Jo Bertini, Idris Murphy, Elisabeth Cummings, and Ross Laurie, Eva has grown into a highly regarded and sought-after artist.

Artist Interview

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

I’ve always gravitated toward water-based acrylics—the quick drying time aligns with my nature, and mixing colours feels like pure play. Painting on paper and layering with collage has been a constant for me, perhaps inspired by Matisse. I enjoy how coloured paper adds accents, enhancing shapes and forms to bring each piece to life.

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

The journey from concept to end result is a deeply intuitive process for me. It usually begins with offloading emotionally and intuitively. I then see shapes and objects within the painting. On my table, in front of me, I will have everyday objects such as handmade pottery jugs tea pots and tea cups set up. Fom there I might paint over objects letting the layers build as I explore more colour and composition. Once I feel the work has achieved the right balance and energy, I refine it, often standing back and viewing it from different angles to make sure it resonates. Each piece is carefully considered and framed in Australian oak. The final phase is the exhibition itself, where the artwork connects with the audience in a shared space—allowing the journey to come full circle.

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

My studio is very messy but I know exactly where everything is! its not a show room, it's my space to think in silence. Without silence I struggle finding my true nature, its very important for me to paint from my true nature. I would say the best part of my studio is the floor its a true work of art.