Arts & Culture
26 July, 2026
Artist of the Week – Vanessa Forbes
Our artist of the week is Vanessa Forbes.
Where do you live and why do you choose to live there? If you could live anywhere else, where would it be?
I have been in the Southern Highlands for 20 years and have lived in Bowral, Robertson and now back to Mittagong. If I could choose anywhere else to live, it would be somewhere warmer.
How long have you been producing art?
I have been creating art since I was a tiny child. I have been painting and exhibiting since I was in my early 20s. I was a high school and tertiary art teacher for many years.
When did you first consider yourself an 'artist’?
Since I was tiny - it was in my blood.
How would you describe your work?
I would describe my art as ethereal. Attempting to capture the essence and frequency of water in all its forms.
What is your favourite medium?
Oil on canvas however, I also draw, do watercolours, acrylics etc. Also sculpture in my past - my MA was in sculpture.
What inspires you as an artist?
My biggest inspiration is nature. Also linked to this is the changing nature of the landscape.
Do you work alone or is art for you a social pursuit?
I work alone - I need the silence.
Social media has changed the way people interact with art and with artists. Galleries may no longer have the same relevance. Do you think that's a good thing?
I don’t agree. We need galleries so that you can directly engage with the work. It is essential to see the work in terms of the scale, the texture and the impact on you in real time. Social media allows you to ‘catch a glimpse’ but it does not translate the essence of the work.
If you had some advice for your younger self, what would it be?
I am happy with my journey - teaching did take up most of my time; however, I have no regrets with that, and I have taught some amazing students. I love that I can now paint full time.
If you had some advice for people afraid of exhibiting their work or showing their work in public, what would it be?
Have a go - you never know who you will meet and what you will learn from the process.
When you are not producing art, how do you spend your time?
Research, reading, walking my dogs, being in nature and having valuable conversations with a few close friends.
Who is the artist that you most admire?
I have quite a few all for different reasons. Everyone says my work reminds them of Turner - his work is highly textured and he uses very thick paint which I don’t. I love Australian artist Clarice Beckett. I think there are too many to list.
How can people appreciate your work?
I exhibit my work at Jennings Kerr Gallery in Robertson, and there is a group show in late August celebrating five years of the gallery being open. I am also on Instagram @vanessaforbes_art_studio.
If you weren't an artist, what would you be?
I have always loved archaeology and history, and I have worked quite extensively with native animals.
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