If you’re a frequent visitor to Manly markets, you’ve no doubt crossed paths with this month’s globetrotting, nature doting, ocean loving, Tawny Frogmouth cover artist, Jules Lawson. She can be found at her Saturday stall with a smile from ear to ear, standing in front of her array of tea towels, face masks, greetings cards, cushions, native teas and, of course, her signed fine
art prints.
Jules’ artwork celebrates the beauty and quirky personalities of animals, both Australian and those from all across the globe, making her the perfect artist to create
a cover commemorating our magazine’s first year in circulation.
What’s your favourite beach?
Freshie for the surf. Store for the tranquillity for going stand-up paddle boarding.
Where’s your favourite place to eat, drink, hang out?
The Pocket in Freshwater for coffee and a post surf brekkie. Stowaways for a balcony gin and tonic in the sun.
What’s the best thing about the Northern Beaches?
Lots of bush, beaches, surf and easy proximity to the city if you want more action.
What inspired your cover artwork?
Having some tawny frogmouths visit my garden fence and, of course, the arrival of The Tawny Frogmouth mag on the Beaches!
What inspires your art in general?
The animals I meet when I travel around Australian and overseas.
How would you describe your art?
A frozen moment in time or a snapshot of animal personalities and interactions.
How did you discover you had a gift for art?
I started off drawing Walt Disney cartoons, but I soon realised I didn’t need Walt’s help and could draw my pets all on my own!
Did you study art?
I’m mostly self-taught, though I often attend various workshops run by other artists.
What are you working on at the moment?
Animal illustrations for a book written by a beloved Grandma that the family would like to print to keep.
How can people buy and support your art?
Follow @julesnatureartist on Instagram, join my mailing list via my website: www.julesnatureartist.com where my new art can be viewed before it reaches social media, online galleries and 50,000 Tawny Frogmouth covers. You can also buy direct from the website and, now that Covid-19 lockdowns have ended, you can even come and visit me at my Manly market stall on Saturdays.
Any advice for young, aspiring artists?
Keep drawing as much as possible, and don’t throw old work away. Have a go at any art opportunities that come your way.
What’s your favourite thing about what you do?
Being able to work outside amongst nature and not being ruled by time.
Any words of wisdom for Tawny Frogmouth readers?
Always have an adventure in the planning stage and don’t take where you live for granted.
Is there a suitably pretentious quote you draw inspiration from?
“I wish the world was twice as big – and half of it was still unexplored.” David Attenborough.