Interview
Neil Elliott
Neil Elliott is a multi award winning Perth Hills based painter and sculptor. His mixed media artworks are created with a sense of humour. Neil draws his inspiration from history, engineering, his dreams and the many interesting objects found in his studio. In 2016 Neil won the Packers’ Prize for his painting ‘Bathroom Intruders’ at the Perth Royal Show. In 2017, he was awarded a state-wide touring exhibition of his sculptures with ART ON THE MOVE. Neil runs sculpture workshops throughout Western Australia.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My work focuses on reconnecting with the inner child - a part of us that represents play, imagination, and creativity. While my work often has a playful feel, it also includes layers of social and personal commentary. These elements invite viewers to reflect on deeper issues while engaging with the fun and curiosity my art evokes.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“My paintings stem from an extensive collection of visual diaries, approximately fifty in total, which serve as a repository for countless ideas and creative explorations. These diaries are a constant source of inspiration, grounding my work in a wellspring of personal sketches and concepts.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“My paintings emphasize experimentation, focusing on creating art that is both enjoyable and distinctive. I pay particular attention to building textured surfaces that add depth and tactile interest. Similarly, my sculpture is motivated by a commitment to repurposing materials destined for landfill. Like my paintings, these pieces are designed to evoke a sense of playfulness while being unique and crafted to the highest standard I can achieve.”
“My paintings stem from an extensive collection of visual diaries, approximately fifty in total, which serve as a repository for countless ideas and creative explorations.”
Are there any art world trends you are following?
“My paintings emphasize experimentation, focusing on creating art that is both enjoyable and distinctive. I pay particular attention to building textured surfaces that add depth and tactile interest. Similarly, my sculpture is motivated by a commitment to repurposing materials destined for landfill. Like my paintings, these pieces are designed to evoke a sense of playfulness while being unique and crafted to the highest standard I can achieve.”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“My paintings are mixed media on board. I like to create a textured surface before I start painting. This can involve building up the surface with tissue paper, molding paste, fabric or lots of paint. I then draw up the image onto the board and then decide whether I will start painting with either spatulas, brushes or rollers (brayers). Making my sculptures is an organic process using objects made from metal or wood that already have a history of their own. I try to maintain the integrity of each piece and display them so their patina is there to tell their story. Constructing my sculptures can involve wood carving, leather sewing, welding and carpentry. This mix of techniques ensures that I never tire of my work.”
What does your art mean to you?
“My art holds a place of equal importance alongside my wife and my mental and physical health. It plays a vital role in maintaining my mental well-being, serving as an essential outlet for self-expression. Through my artistic practice, I am able to explore and articulate my emotions, ensuring a sense of balance and fulfillment in my life.”
What’s your favourite artwork and why?
“Choosing a favorite artwork is never straightforward, but one that stands out for me is ‘Super 8.’ This piece challenged me on multiple levels, incorporating techniques such as welding, wood carving, leather work, and painting. The complexity of these processes created a deep connection to the artwork, both emotionally and physically. The challenges it posed brought me closer to the piece, making it a truly meaningful and memorable creation in my artistic journey.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“My first solo exhibition as it was the realization of becoming the artist that I always wanted to be along with the fact that it was a great success. Also, any exhibition where I won an award or made a sale. I always feel honoured that someone likes my work enough to spend their hard earned cash on it or that it has been judged a worthy winner.”
