Resume

"My main aim is to paint passionately and enthusiastically… with variation, versatility and diversity… always changing and evolving so as not to become staid. I feel the need to continually keep my work alive, looking for inspiration evoked by emotion, mood or atmosphere."

Helen Cottle’s realistic/impressionist painting style has grown out of decades of experimentation with different mediums.

Born in Williamstown, Victoria, Helen’s artistic life started in early childhood where she spent hours drawing from life. However, what began as a part time hobby, over time evolved into a passion to express herself creatively in whatever medium the chosen subject calls for.

Inspired by and studying the brushstrokes and techniques of artists such as Arthur Streeton, John Singer-Sargent and Harold Herbert, Helen initially focused on oil painting before moving on to specialise in watercolour. Recently Helen has moved into acrylic and mixed media. She believes that regardless of medium, having a fascination with the effects of light on a subject and observing life’s intriguing details, enables everyday views to be transformed into dynamic and interesting works of art.
Helen has had many successful solo and joint exhibitions and is now a popular and highly sought after tutor and educator.