What’s great about the art world is how accessible it is. Artists aren’t stuffy, or aloof (well a couple are). They share a passion for art, so are often really accommodating to people interested in their art and approach
Sally Hastings is someone I came across on Reddit and subsequently Instagram. She’s now my Aussie Art Buddy and an inspiration too. She gave up her Art Director job and is now a hugely successful Professional Artist – how cool is that?! She’s an Antipodean Artist with a twist… a gummy twist.
What was it that grabbed me?
My favourite film is Jaws, hence my own painting We’re Gonna Need a Bigger Boat. Sally’s depiction of the famous poster made me laugh – what a skill that is – to make people laugh from an image alone.
Sally’s twist is to take contemporary (I know Jaws is 50+ years old!) film and tv references and bring them to life with a gummy being the the key threat in the scene.
This one little twist completely spins the narrative – genius! Also it makes a statement:
Sally’s paintings are about FUN, about COLOUR and frankly, they will make you SMILE!
How does this approach inform my style?
I always amp-up the chroma in my paintings – yes that makes them less “realistic”, but it also brings colour into a room. Just look at the colour in Sally’s work – POP!
I also love the FUN! My own paintings often take a fun view of serious issues – I don’t want my art to punch down, but I do like it when it takes a pop at pomposity and self aggrandising. So, Sally’s approach both reveres the great moments in life, but lets you reflect on them with a lens that puts you in the right place to enjoy those memories.
About Sally Hastings
Sally is an artist based in Australia with collectors around the world, she’s got a huge following and yet her work remains affordable – so get in whilst you can!
Don’t take my word for it – go check her out!
