An Artist Turned Gallerist: The Story Behind The Pink Gallery

I used to say I wished I could draw.

My dad still teases me about it to this day. And yet, here I am — a gallerist, a curator, and an artist. Life has a wonderful sense of humour.

The Beginning: A Birthday Card and a Blank Canvas

Ten years ago, my children left home. Adjusting to the empty nest was surprising — and while my husband and I still very much enjoy each other's company, I've always believed that everyone needs their own passion.

So I decided to make a hand-painted card for my husband's birthday. I found it so relaxing. It's true what they say — art really is like therapy.

A few months later, my family gifted me paints, canvases, and brushes for my birthday. I was hooked.

My mum, Julie Lawson, has been painting for over 40 years and is an artist I have always deeply admired. Growing up, we spent so much time in galleries together, discussing every aspect of art. Her passion and skill planted a seed in me that took decades to bloom — but bloom it did.

I continued to paint, selling my work through Instagram, entering exhibitions, and taking on commissions. To my own surprise, my art continued to grow.

The Little Pink Cottage

I had this itch to open my own gallery, but I couldn't find the right space. Living in Healesville, I would often drive past a little pink cottage and admire its beauty. One day I noticed it was empty.

I contacted the owner — Bec, of LLB Florals, an amazing artist in her own right — and asked if the cottage was available. She answered: "It's been waiting for you."

I don't think I will ever forget that feeling. I just stood there in this magical moment of "what if."

I opened The Pink Gallery two years ago with little knowledge of being a gallerist or curator — just a passion for art, a small budget, and plenty of motivation.

What Two Years Has Taught Me

Every artist experiences vulnerability, whether they're just starting out or have years of experience behind them. Imposter syndrome is a genuine challenge, and if I could wave a magic wand to banish this unproductive feeling, I would do so in a heartbeat.

My take on this art life is simple: what do you love, and what do you have to lose? Absolutely nothing but your pride — and who cares about that. Create what you love, put yourself out there, and never give up. That's how I've tackled this art world, because it can be overwhelming and sometimes intimidating.

This is why I set out to create a welcoming environment where artists can display their work. Whether or not a piece sells, what matters is that it is exhibited — where visitors can appreciate it, experience it, and find a momentary escape into another world.

The Exhibitions

This year I launched The Pink Gallery's first Group Exhibition for Professional and Emerging Artists, themed "Australia" — a subject so rich with landscape, beaches, wildlife, people, and Indigenous culture that inspiration is truly plentiful. Over forty artists applied, and opening night drew more than 70 people through the door. I couldn't stop laughing with happiness. The artists were overjoyed to see their work so warmly received.

Two winners were selected from that exhibition — Beth Williams and Lizzie Alsop — each earning their own solo wall at the gallery. Both sold most of their paintings.

Our Spring Exhibition last year, themed "These Are a Few of My Favourite Things" (yes, inspired by The Sound of Music!), featured over 70 paintings and was absolutely beautiful. Judged by Louise Brown, the winners were Debbie Mourzios and Bianca Horton, who will be showing their work from December 6th.

Follow along on Instagram or check the website to stay up to date and apply for future group exhibitions.

My Advice to Artists Starting Out

• Practice makes perfect — paint every day if you can.
• Find your style. When you're learning, you'll try everything — which is fun and exciting. After a while, you'll settle into something recognisably yours. Collectors love that. That's a "Joan Blond" piece. That's a "Beth Williams."
• Find your voice. What is your passion? Why do you paint? Collectors love hearing the story behind the work and the artist.
• If you love abstract art — don't strive for perfection. There are no mistakes in abstract art, and often the mistakes are the most beautiful part. As Diane Keaton said: "What is perfection anyway? It's the death of creativity."
• Don't be discouraged by rejections. They're common, they build resilience, and they're often simply a matter of limited space and high competition. Keep trying. Never give up.

My Advice to New Art Collectors

I have joyfully discovered that the younger generation is deeply in love with art. They know artists, they follow the art world, and they're building gallery walls in their homes — starting their collections early and with real intention.

My advice? Surround yourself with pieces that mean something to you. I always ask visitors: "Which one is your favourite?" It's always a different answer — and that's the beauty of it.

Visit your local gallery. Get to know the artists in your area and beyond. Purchase the piece you're drawn to — not just because the artist is well known. You'll look at this piece every day.

And the best part? At The Pink Gallery, our group exhibitions feature art for every budget. You can start your original art collection for as little as $150.

The Pink Gallery is located in Healesville, Victoria. Follow us on Instagram or browse the current collection online.