THE ARTIST

Holley Ryan

Art has been a part of my life always, I always have something on the go, when I wake daily I am thinking of the colours I want to use or I the ideas I have for creative pieces, even how I will progress with any craft projects I may be working on. I’m inspired by many things. Throughout my younger years I drew alot, it was when I began my family that I started drawing portraits. Pastel pencils were my medium of choice for many years before I started exploring other art media and now I find I have several favourites.

Throughout my life I have worked in the art department for a magazine, as a commissioned illustrator, professional tattooist and a commissioned portrait artist.

I enjoy being with my family who are growing fast, we have a crazy white bull terrier and a ball mad jack russell. I am very much a cat person although my beautiful cats have now crossed over, someday I will get another kitty to boss me around. I like all things gothic, victorian, ancient, viking etc. Music is totally amazing and I love to listen to old school heavy metal.

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Throughout the years I have entered some exhibitions and have won several awards for my fineart, these include…

  • 2022 Rotary Club of Portland Inc. 38th Art Exhibition – Best Local Artist
  • 2019 Rotary Club of Hamilton North Inc. 39th Annual Art Exhibition – Highly Commended
  • 2018 Rotary Club of Portland Inc. 36th Annual Art Exhibition – Encouragement Award
  • 2010 Australian Artist Magazine, Favourite Subjects Challenge – 3rd Prize
  • 2009 South East Art Society, Open Art Awards – Peoples Choice Award, Equal Winner
  • 2008 South East Art Society, Open Art Awards – Peoples Choice Award
  • 2007 Australian Artist Magazine, Favourite Subjects Challenge no.29 – Finalist
  • 2006 Rotary Club of Portland Inc. 24th Annual Art Exhibition – Highly Commended
  • 2006 Rotary Club of Portland Inc. 24th Annual Art Exhibition – Highly Commended
  • 2005 South East Art Society, Open Art Awards – Viewers Choice Award