Ping Carlyon, the creator behind Studio Ping, is an artist based in Gladstone who launched her business three years ago. With a passion for watercolour spanning two decades, Ping has recently delved into acrylic and oil mediums. ” I love all subjects, still life, portraits, animals and especially my own style, I named it ribbons,” she explains. Currently collaborating with Tom Holden, a digital and drawing artist, Ping is preparing for a joint exhibition showcasing her ribbon-themed works. ” This exhibition will be in November 2024, at the Blue Mirror Gallery. We had been working very hard for it, I can’t wait to see everything on the wall. Very excited” Ping states.
Ping balances her time between her part-time role at the Blue Mirror Café and teaching workshops on the weekends, which serves as both a means of supporting herself and nurturing her artistic endeavours. “I’m very lucky that I love all my jobs,” she reflects. ” But finding times between jobs and scheduling between my family. That’s probably my biggest challenge. I still paint till 9 PM after all my work and chores most days.”
While many recognise her as a talented artist, Ping humbly dismisses such accolades. “A lot of people commend me for my talent, but I don’t see it that way,” she asserts. ” I do work very hard and practice very hard on my art. I earn it, not gifted.”
Ping will have workshops scheduled for the upcoming school holidays at The Blue Mirror, where it is designed for all levels, whether you are there to be social, for the art therapy, to have a break from their busy life, or want to learn some new skills. “I think everyone can paint, at least, enjoy art. I’m sure you can enjoy yourself at my workshop.”
Ping shares some good advice to aspiring artists, just starting their creative journey, “Being yourself is very important. Practising your skills is a non-stop journey, once you have the skills, either it’s painting, sketching, crafts or photography, you are adding your thoughts and feelings into your art. And that’s the beauty of art!”