Lucy Hersey is a painter living in regional Victoria. She works in natural pigments and plant extracts which she grows and forages in her local area.

“I’m big on sustainability - trying to be low impact in my art practice and life. I am as interested in the process of paint makings I am in love with the act of painting. How paint was made throughout history, the significance of colour and pigments in different cultures, and sourcing and using natural pigments to make my own paint. My background in research often leads me down wonderful problem solving, experimental rabbit holes; and at times my studio looks more like a science lab than a painter’s workshop. Being able to pick up the landscape, and physically work it into my paintings is the essential, connecting element of my practice. Ultimately for me, it is the intrinsic properties of the materials that determine the outcome of each painting, as the quirks of each natural pigment are revealed, guiding and leading me in a way that is collaboration, and a celebration of nature and the landscape.

Join me at Leighton Contemporary in Noosaville, where I will share with you what I know about making paint and paintings from earth, as well as brewing and making your own paint colours from some unexpected sustainable sources. You will spend a productive and thoughtful morning mixing and filling a pan of your own handmade paint to take home. We will also discuss finding your own earth pigments and what to look for, for your consideration if you are interested in going out and collecting your own materials to make paint later. Once you have made some beautiful natural colours to play with, we can spend time experimenting and painting together. There is no need to be an artist, or have any experience at all. It’s simply about enjoying yourself and learning a new thing.” - Lucy Hersey