Helen Cottle
Helen Cottle was born in bay side Williamstown, Victoria; she is a self-educated artist who paints in all mediums in a realist/impressionist style.
Helen’s artistic life began in early childhood; she would spend many hours drawing from life always seeking new subject matter.
What began as a part-time hobby evolved into a passion to express herself creatively in whatever medium she called on to compliment the chosen subject.
Helen was greatly encouraged by her high school art teachers to pursue a career in art and teaching, however she decided not study art at university but to follow her own path of self education and exploration. She attended local art groups and began seeking out tutors to further her technical knowledge and understanding of certain mediums.
Helen has recently moved into acrylic and mixed media. No matter which medium is chosen, she believes that having a fascination with the effects of light on a subject and observing life’s intriguing details, everyday views can be transformed into dynamic and interesting works of art.
Helen’s career began as an artist and art educator, with an eagerness to learn and then pass on her knowledge to others, encouraging them to enjoy the world of art.
Helen is currently working as a professional artist and is a popular teacher in the Macedon Ranges north-west of Melbourne. Helen currently works from her own studio in Gisborne, where she runs classes and workshops teaching drawing and painting in watercolor, acrylic and mixed media.
From time to time Helen also runs workshops throughout Victoria and interstate. She has also tutored for the National Gallery of Victoria conducting watercolor workshops to coincide with Seeing the Centre: The art of Albert Namatjira 1902-1959 watercolor exhibition in 2003 and with Modern Britain 1900-1960: Masterworks from Australian and New Zealand collections exhibition 2008. Helen currently tutors for the art scene Mitchell School of Art, Bathurst.
Helen is a member of AGRA (Australian Guild of Realist Artists), Macedon Ranges Art Group and the Woodend Art Group. She has held several solo and joint exhibitions that have been very successful with many sales and commissions extending from them. She participates in many art shows and competitions including Camberwell Rotary art show, St Kevin’s College Art Show and has received awards, prizes and commendations.