Bathurst resident, Nicole Foxall, is taking advantage of the growth in the visual arts and craft industry by painting a successful career in the Central West as an artist.

Known for painting the landscape, under the watchful eye of her dog Scooby, Ms Foxall said “I had been slowly establishing my art practice for a few years before I decided to study a Diploma of Visual Arts at TAFE NSW Orange. I got to the point where I wanted to take things to the next level and I felt that I couldn’t do this by myself.

“Studying at TAFE NSW has changed the way I make art and earn an income. My painting style and process has been transformed – there’s more thinking and experimentation. As a result, I’m now selling my artworks at the Tablelands Artist’s Cooperative Gallery.

“I really enjoy having an experienced and industry qualified artist, who is also my teacher, looking over my shoulder to guide and push me; it’s so valuable to have instant feedback as you work.

“Making art is mostly a solitary practice, so to be around a group of likeminded people who you can talk art with was great and as a result, I’ve also discovered a passion for printmaking, which is a medium I had never considered.”

TAFE NSW Arts and Design Teacher, Ruth Stone, said the number of people working as visual arts and craft professionals was expected to grow over the next five years, so now was the time for aspiring artists to follow their passion and be in a career that they will love.i

“TAFE NSW sees many graduates lead successful careers in the arts industry as practicing artists, facilitators, university lecturers or working for arts organisations.

“Studying visual arts at TAFE NSW not only gives students the practical skills in a range of studio disciplines, but helps them understand and engage with the arts industry to take their practice to a professional level.

“Nicole is an outstanding student with a very professional attitude, one that shows in her ability to market herself and plan a way forward with her future aspirations as an artist. She was nominated for the TAFE NSW art prize last year and as a result her work, ‘I can hear the River’ was displayed in the NSW Parliament building.”

Ms Stone said there was also a range of exciting short courses at TAFE NSW on offer for the community to broaden their creative skillsets.

“Amateur and experienced artists can access a range of short courses at TAFE NSW Bathurst and Orange including a Statement of Attainment in Printmaking, Drawing and Painting Skills as well as a new Statement of Attainment in Interior Design. For experienced artists looking to extend their skills, TAFE NSW Orange offers a Statement of Attainment in Artist in Residence.”

For more information on the wide range of TAFE NSW art and design courses, visit www.tafensw.com.au or phone 131 601.

Media contact: Emma Curtis, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner, (02) 6338 2509, mobile 0427 901 515.

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i. Australian Government Jobs Outlook/visual art and craft professionals