Occasional Blogger: Getting to know Kate Jenvey

I first became aware of Kate's work when I began volunteering at NEA's original home at 90 Bridge Street.  Each week I would find my eyes drawn to a wonderful painting of a little white chook preparing to forage in the soil titled 'Combing'  I imagined it on the brick wall in my kitchen, but sadly it disappeared.  I was thrilled when it emerged again again after our move to 122 Bridge Street. and decided that I didn't want it to disappear again, I wanted it on my wall! It now sits there happily, welcoming me when I go into the kitchen.,  

Kate Jenvey's 'Combing' and 'Munchin', on display at NEA's first home 90 Bridge Street, 2015

Since then I have enjoyed monitoring Kate's work through her changing exhibits at NEA; often chatting to her when she volunteers or calls in to restock her cards, through Facebook and her web page.  In January I attended Kate's drawing workshop on drawing birds. It proved to be a nostalgia trip, taking me back to primary school and the drawing tasks suggested by the Gould League of Bird Lovers.  It was so therapeutic, being quietly guided by Kate as I drew my first bird for many years.

Like other NEA members, I greeted news of Kate's preparation for an exhibition at the Benalla Art Gallery in February 2017 with great excitement.  'Drawn to the Wild' was a beautiful exhibition and extremely well received in our community.  From a busy opening, attended by many NEA members, Kate went on to take a drawing workshop 'Depicting the Wild' and to speak to a number of groups, including U3A Benalla. ​

Photographs:  Kate at Exhibition Opening - Tim Bowtell;
​Depicting the Wild​ Workshop and presentation to U3A Benalla - Benalla Art Gallery.

Kate's website www.katejenvey.com recently included news of her Highly Commended award in the inaugural National Equine Art Prize for the painting, 'Thundering Hooves'.   This new national art prize, auspiced by Manfield District Racing Club, was a great success, attracting entries from all over Australia. 

Kate, pictured with artist Tony Pridham, receiving her award....
​Photograph: Melissa Crow (Youlissys Creative)

Kate's drawing, "Leopard on the Move", has been selected for the David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the Year to be held at the Mall Galleries in London this June.  Kate was thrilled when this appeared on her facebook site.....

Kate is increasingly part of the 'world stage' in her genre.  I feel so lucky to have been able to get to know her at NEA.  I will continue to follow her career with interest and will also continue to enjoy and treasure her painting of the little white chook 'combing' which I have on my wall..  


An occasional blog by Beverley Lee, May 2017

*'The Occasional Blogger' is open for submissions by NEA members.  
If you have an idea for a blog and would like to discuss it, or have copy ready to submit, email  northeastartisans.projects@gmail.com