Living the Dream: Narelle Sissons on Shifting from Set Designer to Painter

In this conversation, Maureen, Sibyl, and Narelle Sissons explore the intricate relationship between set design and painting, discussing how experiences in theatre inform artistic expression. They delve into the importance of emotional depth in art, the role of improvisation, and the balance between collaboration and independence in the creative process. Narelle shares her journey from set design to painting, emphasizing the lessons learned from theatre that continue to influence her work. The discussion highlights the significance of personal experiences, reflection, and the impact of feedback in shaping artistic endeavors. In this conversation, Narelle Sissons discusses her journey as an artist transitioning from stage design to painting. She reflects on the boldness she has developed in her artistic expression, the importance of personal narratives in her work, and the physicality involved in her painting process. Narelle also shares her future plans, including upcoming exhibitions and the exploration of feminine perspectives in her art.

topics

- Compartmentalizing is essential for mental health in creative work.

- Art can be a reflection of personal experiences and emotions.

- Theatre teaches valuable lessons that can be applied to painting.

- Improvisation is a key component of both set design and painting.

- Collaboration can enhance creativity but also requires discernment.

- Emotional attachment to work can lead to more authentic art.

- Taking breaks can provide fresh perspectives on artwork.

- Feedback can reveal insights that the artist may overlook.

- The process of creating art often involves trial and error.

- Finding the right moment in art is crucial for impactful expression.

- Narelle's boldness in production has evolved over time.

- Set design plays a crucial role in creating visual narratives.

- Personal experiences significantly influence artistic creation.

- The physicality of painting is essential to Narelle's process.

- Narelle is excited about integrating different art forms in her future work.

- Exploring feminine perspectives is a key theme in her art.

- Art can evoke personal memories and connections for viewers.

- Narelle's work challenges traditional notions of femininity in art.

- The importance of risk-taking in artistic endeavors is emphasized.

- Narelle's journey reflects a continuous evolution in her artistic practice.

Music by Claire McKeown "Sarabande in D minor"

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