Visual arts course helps keep Angela’s creative passions beating
By Greg Chapman
CQUniversity’s Visual Arts course has been “transformative” for Toowoomba region creative Angela Hart, taking her from a gifted novice to a talented professional.
Angela, who lives in the small country town of Nobby, just 45 minutes south of Toowoomba, said she decided to study CQU’s Certificate III in Visual Arts to enhance her “journey” as an artist.
“I had always wanted to study or learn about the arts but because I was not a scholar at school, I didn't have the confidence to think I could achieve anything in a study environment, and I always thought that it was harder to apply than what it actually took,” she said.
“Watching video tutorials only scratched the surface on what was going on in the world of art. Though it was a downfall too because I kept comparing my art to others. Studying the Certificate III allowed me to dive deeper into the heart of the art journey I wanted to pursue.”
Angela said the decision had been a long time coming, after raising her children, a lifetime of breaking in horses, a divorce and caring for her elderly parents, but she was glad to take the step.
“My creative process comes from the heart. I work mainly in acrylics and my subjects are horses, humans and dogs, though the dogs are a different level again (the dog paintings attract buyers, as in pet portraits),” she said.
“I describe my work as loose, free, fun, fresh and unafraid. I like to work quickly, though I always keep in mind the elements, and principles of art. I like to create a feeling and movement in my gestures as well as a well-proportioned result.
“The course was well planned out. The course offered hands-on experience with various techniques and mediums, such as acrylics and charcoal which are dominant in my art practice. As I continued with my studies, my confidence built with the feedback I received from my tutor, Carmen Gray."
She said the course also allowed her to connect with fellow artists and tutors, leading to collaborations and exhibition opportunities.
“My confidence to walk into an art gallery absolutely took off. I felt more confident when I was amongst others when looking at art. What I learned in the course has allowed me to explore and refine my artistic voice, helping me to express my creative ideas more effectively. The confidence and skills I gained have continued to influence my bravery to help and guide emerging artists,” she said.
In the past year Angela has entered several competitions and exhibited her work.
“Just recently I applied for an online exhibition which was held at the Abel Gallery in Brisbane. It is called the Australian Artists Awards. I was fortunate enough to be one of 50 finalists amongst 168 entries,” she said.
Up next, Angela will have her work exhibited in the Pop'd Gallery and Studio in Toowoomba as one of seven artists.
“We are trialling it month by month. If all goes well, in 2025, we will be sharing that space bi-monthly with student exhibitions and workshops. I also have my studio at home that I can run workshops from and I'm just plucking up the courage to open my studio to visitors who travel through my town,” she said.
She encouraged anyone with a passion for art to consider the Certificate III in Visual Arts course.
“It’s not a matter of 'if' but 'when'. I always emphasise how transformative the course has been for me. The skills and confidence I gained have truly elevated my artistic practice. The structured modules and supportive feedback helped me grow, not just as an artist, but also in my ability to communicate and connect with others in the art community,” she said.
“This course is invaluable for anyone looking to enhance their creative abilities, build their profile and start on their own artistic journey with a solid foundation.”
