MIM OGRADY ART

MIM OGRADY
Welcome to my artworks and my website.
I hope you enjoy learning a little more about me and what has motivated me to create.
Born in Sydney, NSW Australia, my parents migrated here from Holland/ Indonesia in 1960 and started our tightly knit family.
I studied Education at Kuring-Gai CAE, majoring in Fine Arts.
On completion I took up a teaching post in Ngemba community of Bourke, NSW. It was this experience that underpinned my love for the raw outback landscape, its deserts and rich earthy colours.
As a primary school teacher, I began to develop a deep respect for the local people, their community and culture. I also started to understand the impact that European settlement has on Australias First Nations peoples. At 21, it was the start to raising my awareness around prejudice and privilege. I have been drawn to seek out further truths, connections and life experiences that help me to become more aware of Australia's real history. It has opened my eyes and my heart to the incredible resilience of First Nations peoples.
I moved up to the Northern Rivers of NSW in 1994 to raise my own family. Settled here now, once again my teaching has afforded me the opportunity to work closely with the community in the local Widjabul-Wiabal Country, Bundjalung Nation Community (Lismore and Goonellabah). I am coming to know this country, learning from the Elders, Knowledge Keepers, families and young jarjums (children).
It has been through my teaching work and connection to this country, that for the first time I feel I have stories I want to tell through my artwork.
I am excited to share my connection to this country, its landscape, its communities and my response to it.
Artistic Training and Experience
In 2024, I completed an Advanced Diploma of Visual Arts.
In 1981, I majored in Fine Arts as part of my Dip Ed.
I have participated in many courses, workshops and classes over the last 30 years.
These have encompassed a variety of mediums including watercolour, oils, acrylics, pastels, ceramics and printmaking.
I have explored a wide variety of different genres including Life Drawing, Portraits, Landscapes, Still Life, Abstract Art.
Although my artwork is inspired by my close experience and connection with First Nations communities, I am not a First Nations person. I respectfully do not intend in any way to imitate or appropriate the unique cultures of First Nations peoples or their enduring connection to country.

EXHIBITIONS/ SHOWS
2026 BLACK FIG GALLERY
Currently represented by Black Fig Gallery
2025 BLACK FIG GALLERY
Shared exhibition with 5 artists
NIMBIN COMMUNITY GALLERY
Featured Artist for a two months period
2024 ROUS MILL HALL
Shared Exhibition with Jane Hewetson
TAFE Graduation Shows
Two Exhibitions showcasing Graduating Students
2023 ROUS MILL HALL
Shared Exhibition with Jane Hewetson
2022 ROUS MILL HALL
Shared Exhibition with Jane Hewetson
2021 LENNOX ART COLLECTIVE
Featured Artist for a month long period
2020 LISMORE REGIONAL GALLERY
Hurfords Portrait Prize- Finalist