As a freelance illustrator for over fifteen years, Felicity has worked on a wide variety of projects. Moving to the Illawarra encouraged her to try out a different style of art.
“I have done a lot of different things like publications within children’s books and then just private commissions and working for different clients in that way,” said Felicity.
“But in terms of actually creating artbooks for the Illawarra, that really only started just over a year ago as I only moved here two years ago.”
Quickly, Felicity discovered the beauty throughout the natural landscapes of the Illawarra and began to create a series that was inspired by local landmarks. As a newbie to the region herself, she brought a fresh eye to places that locals take for granted.
“I thought, ‘oh, maybe I could create some travel posters that promote some of our favorite places that we like to go to’, and it kinda just kicked off from there,” said Felicity.
“I am incredibly influenced by nature. And everywhere I go, I carry a little sketchbook with me. And if I’m not sketching, I’m taking photos of things for references.”
The posters depict scenes ranging from the depths of Kiama Ocean Pool to the mysteries of Minnamurra River. Her illustration style draws on bold, vintage-inspired palettes that give her Illawarra pieces a timeless and almost nostalgic quality. They are reminiscent of mid-century travel posters, yet unmistakably rooted in the present, contemporary Illawarra. Felicity found that these pieces were much appreciated in the market space.
“There have been so many fascinating conversations that I’ve had with people and a lot of people who want to tell me about the location that I have created. Because I am still so new to this area, I’m still learning about different locations and their importance to the local community,” said Felicity.
“And so there are a lot of stories that people have told me about spots that I’ve captured, where it is not only important to the community, but it is important to them individually.”
It isn’t just the communities at markets who appreciate Felicity’s works. Broadly, it is the Illawarra itself that has created spaces for artists to share their works.
“I was just kind of really inspired by a lot of other local artists and walking around town and seeing that there is so much more support,” said Felicity.
“I feel on the South Coast, when it comes to local artists and opportunities, there are so many markets and different stores that are willing to sell their work.”
This open and welcoming attitude has led Felicity to happily claim the area as her home.
“I still pinch myself regularly since moving here. Sometimes, just being able to drive past a certain scene, it’s just incredible,” said Felicity.
Beyond landscapes and natural scenes, Felicity also captures some of the furry friends amongst the community. Accompanying many owners to the markets are numerous dogs that deserve their moment in the spotlight too. Felicity offers pet portraits that encapsulate a pet’s spirit.
“I thought maybe I could shake it up a little bit and do some dog portraits and try and focus on that market,” said Felicity.
“It’s also a lot of fun, and there are lots of really interesting interactions from that as well. I have a lot of people that come up to me with pets that have passed away, which I find very touching that they’re entrusting me to capture them in that memory. That feels really special and important.”
The pet portrait commissions have grown steadily through word of mouth, with clients often returning to gift portraits to friends and family. For Felicity, these pieces carry a weight through a deeply personal connection between subject and owner that she takes seriously.
She also has plans to continue up the coastline, sketching along the way.
“I constantly have a list of places that people have recommended, but there’s also plenty of places that I love and I still wanna capture that I’m trying to get to,” said Felicity.
Felicity continues to sell her work at local markets. You can check out her socials for her upcoming locations or purchase from her directly via her website.
@ felicitygardner.illustrations
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