Hello all, welcome to my virtual gallery and retail space! My name is Amanda Johnson and I live and paint in Broken Hill in outback NSW, Australia. As a 4th generation local I have a deep love of my home town. The people, places and colours inform much of my work, as do my family and my experiences of growing up in this unique city.
Following 5 years as Payroll Officer at the South Mine, I decided I needed a better outlet for my creativity. This led to a career change and the opening of my own ceramic teaching studio. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to develop my own style, and to guide others as they did the same.
From there it was a progression of both artistic style and workspace until my atelier of Willy Nilly Art. Housed in a Heritage building in Broken Hill’s main street, WNA was a working Studio, Gallery and retail space where everyone was welcome to browse, buy, or just stop by for a chat.
After 10years in my little retail space, it was time to concentrate on developing my style and exploring more of my creativity.
There's less scope for a chat with the virtual store, but I'm endeavouring to showcase a range of artworks. I take on commissions, so if you were looking for something specific please send an email. Please take a look at the Gallery for some examples.
I am an Ambassador for our amazing Lifeline Regional SA & Far West NSW and thoroughly advocate getting help when you need it, finding what works for you and being able to say you're not okay if you're not okay. I have had a lived experience with postnatal depression. Making time to be creative and to exercise were some of my solutions, as was finding like-minded friends to share these with. If you would like to hear more, please check out the Holding Onto Hope Podcasts (mine among them) available for free from Lifeline Australia. Lifeline is there for anyone, anytime. 13 11 14
I hope you enjoy my store and my work. I'm excited for this new chapter in my art (is) life and look forward to a painterly future.
Cheers,
Amanda
