Amanda Harrison
Largely self-taught, I developed my sculptural practice alongside careers in film, journalism and graphic design.
An evening sculpture course while working in London, then workshops and TAFE courses in Sydney with some fabulous artist-teachers, provided the platform to launch into sculpture full time.
The mantra of my other workplaces – “keep it simple” and cut any excess – has directed my approach to sculpting, exploring and searching for the essence of the human figure through simplified lines and shapes and texture.
I’ve always loved creating the figure, looking for simplicity, joy, life and love in people and relationships.
Optimism and resilience are essential to get through life.
And with a little balance and texture thrown in both in sculpting and in life! – growth and happiness will follow.
I’ve exhibited widely, been accepted into numerous competitions and won many prizes. In 2020, I won the Acquisitive Prize for Small Sculpture at ‘Sculpture in the Gardens’ Mudgee, and the Acquisitive Prize at ‘Sculpture Bermagui’ on the south coast. My formal studies include a BA (Film & Scriptwriting), a Diploma of Graphic Design, and a Certificate in Sculpture at the Kensington and Chelsea College, London.
I’m currently on the committee of The Sculptors Society, and a member of the Australian Ceramics Association and the Willoughby Arts Centre.
I’ve been the convenor of the Greenwich Village Arts Trail for 10 years, held annually on the first weekend in November in northern Sydney.