Artist Statement:
I use mixed media, vibrant colour, textural layers, and expressive linework to explore playful interpretations of places, emotions, and memories inspired by my love of the outdoors. Whether by the sea, wandering through the Australian bush, or the countryside, I find endless inspiration in the beauty of flowers, close-up observations - the moments gathered from life's adventures and travels, both near and far.
I have two distinct creative streams, both inspired by imperfections, hand-drawn marks, wobbly lines, simplified forms, and flattened compositions.
One draws inspiration from the natural world, adopting a more impressionistic feel with spontaneous marks and intuitive colours. The other explores quirky, illustrative imagery with bold, often unexpected colour palettes. Rather than striving for realism, I embrace abstraction, allowing emotion and imagination to shape each piece.
Working primarily on paper, colour is at the heart of my creative process, which is why I rarely use black. I combine watercolour washes with acrylic and water-based markers, inks, paints, coloured pencils and fine pen line work, layering mixed media to create texture, depth and movement in my work and taking familiar subjects out of context and reimagining them in unexpected ways. Occasionally incorporating digital techniques to expand on my ideas while maintaining the organic character of my original artwork.
My experiences, travels, and lifelong connection to the Australian landscape have all shaped my artistic journey and the imagery that defines my work. Through the use of vibrant colours and playful interpretation, I hope my work evokes a sense of joy, curiosity, and connection, encouraging viewers to see the familiar with fresh eyes.
Ute'
Artist Bio:
Born in Austria and raised in Australia, Ute Ronacher is a Melbourne-based artist, surface pattern designer and the creative behind Camilion Designs. With a Bachelor of Arts in Printed Textile Design from RMIT University, Melbourne, in 1983, she has more than 30 years’ experience across the fashion, homewares and surface design industries.
Ute’s love of drawing, colour and the Australian outdoors began early, inspired by wandering through the bush and observing the beauty and intricate details of nature. After decades of designing commercially for Australian and international brands, she shifted her focus in 2016 to developing her own artistic voice.
Today, Ute creates colourful, expressive and playful artwork inspired by nature, flowers, travel, memories and the Australian landscape. Working with mixed media, vibrant colour and expressive line, she brings these experiences to life through original art, stationery and homewares.
Her work has been exhibited in galleries and group exhibitions across Australia and featured in the Incognito Art Show since 2023. Her surface pattern designs have also received recognition through designer markets, trade shows and the Taegu Design Competition in Korea.
