Acrylic Painting
Sarah Jane John
Subjects | Realism, Still Life, Landscape, Animals, Florals
Sarah John
Working primarily in acrylics and oils on canvas, Sarah's style leans into semi-realism and explores a variety of subjects, from the vastness of Australian landscapes to intimate still life, florals, and animals.
Completing studies in Interior Design reignited a long-dormant creative spark. Through art, Sarah embraces imperfections, confronts a fear of failure, and allows her mood to shape the theme of each individual piece. Her most meaningful pieces are often an expression of deep emotions: anger at an unjust world has emerged in foreboding stormy landscapes, a sense of chaos manifests in a calming still life or floral, and a need for playfulness leads to silly or absurd subjects.
Sarah's studio space is often shared with her two children, whose candid critiques and heartfelt encouragements are a joyous part of her process. As a qualified and practicing Career Educator, painting part-time allows her to balance both vocations – each enriching the other in unexpected ways.
What medium do you work with, and why have you chosen them?
My foray into painting began with watercolour play, and I quickly moved on to acrylics. They felt safe, easy, forgiving, and quick to work with, but I eventually became frustrated with their drying time and lack of depth. Two fellow artists in the family encouraged me try oils, which led to experimentation, frustration, and ultimately an aha! moment. These days, most of my pieces are oil-based subjects layered over an acrylic background.
How does your artwork get from initial concept to exhibition stage?
My process looks somewhat like this: inspiration sparked – playing with different compositions and colour schemes on Canva – blocking out a background on canvas – sketching the composition – putting down the first layer of paint – hating it – putting it to the side in frustration – deciding to give it another go – pushing through the ugly stage – loving the final result. I choose to handmake my own natural oak frames once a piece is complete, as I don’t like the pressure of a pre-made frame.
Inspiration might strike from anywhere. In fact, I’m often a little too distracted by the abundance of it! Internally, I might imagine a certain colour combination, or feel a need to express strong feelings however I can. Externally, inspiration is everywhere. Conversations with artist friends, visiting the farm, long afternoon shadows, sunlight on grass, or the flowers that bloom after heavy rain… The final piece rarely resembles the initial concept, as I allow it to evolve organically during its creation and learn as I go.
Can you tell us a little more about your creative working environment/studio?
I initially began working at the dining table, which quickly became impractical… Paint everywhere, poor lighting, and a time-consuming set up, all of which prevented regular or enjoyable practice. I carved out a small space in the study, which has a beautiful east-facing window overlooking bushland, and allows me to leave my paints, easels, palettes and brushes set up for regular practice. The room is slowly transforming into an eclectic gallery of its own.
Career Highlights
- Grammar Art Show 2025 (Sold Out)
- Aspire Gallery "Solstice" Exhibition 2025
