Bren Luke

Images above:

Working in the studio. Photograph by Kelly Grundy.

'Joyce's Junkatique'
Ink on bristolboard,
Bren Luke, 2021.

'Mill Street'
Ink on bristolboard,
Bren Luke, 2022.

How did your creative journey begin?

I suppose It began as early as I can remember, drawing has always been a part of my life. I was always encouraged to draw, my Dad loved to draw and sketch in his spare time, usually after work at the kitchen table, my older sisters were creative and I was fortunate enough to have supportive teachers along the way through Primary and Secondary school. From there I gained the confidence to study fine art at University. I think that even from a very early age I had the feeling that I'd be making some form of art or work in a creative job. I'm definitely happiest and mentally healthiest when I'm drawing and being creative by planning or making things.

How would you describe your practice?

Over the past 10 years or so I've mostly been focussed on pen and ink drawing using a technique called crosshatching which creates tonal effects by drawing closely spaced fine parallel lines on angled layers which cross one another to create the impression of light and shade. I've recently combined the crosshatching with some dotted stippling which has enhanced the textural feel and space of the drawings - walls of buildings and sky for example where more subtlety and nuance is needed. I use Rapidograph pens which are drafting pens for precise line work, often used by architects, illustrators and designers because of the clean, crisp, and solid lines they make. Most of my work is as an illustrator, creating drawings for clients in a range of settings. I've created work for SBS, The Age/Sydney Morning Herald and The Meredith Music Festival as well as illustrating a few children's books.

What are you working on right now?

I've recently finished the series of Ballarat drawings titled 'Streets of Your Town' which is currently on show at the Art Gallery of Ballarat and now I'm working on some commissioned drawings until the end of this year then next year I'll begin working on a new themed series of work for an exhibition coming up in Melbourne.

What is your connection to Ballarat?

I was born in Ballarat, grew up here and I studied at Ballarat University now known as Federation University. The connection is strong and I think it's getting stronger as I get older which I think is natural. I became especially aware of this connection while I was working on the Ballarat drawings but it has been most rewarding hearing and reading people's reactions to the drawings, which have been on the whole positive and what these places mean, the memories and sense of place they represent to them.

How would you describe the creative community in Ballarat?

Across generations and disciplines, the Ballarat creative community has always been incredibly supportive of each other which I think is unique to the size and geography of the city. There are so many brilliant artists living and working here on a whole range of projects making Ballarat an evolving, vibrant and interesting place for residents and visitors.

Can you give us three words to sum up your inspiration?

Friends, Family, Places.

For more information and updates on Bren, visit his Linktree.