Jessica Gilbert

I loved my time at NAS (July 2022-June 2024) , and the people I got to know.

My first studio mate Leah Poi, who generously invited and shared with me even though I had the advantage of much more time there. Her encouragement and belief in my need to be there did so much for my confidence. My late night bud James Rhodes, who would always have one drink and a squiz through each other's studios. Franny Johnston, we would catch up on life and get so excited for each other's progress.

Whenever Paula Thistleton was in town, we'd kindly critique and natter. Jaymie Mayley, one of the most enthusiastic painters I've met, so much knowledge, passion, and sweetness. I could never understand how much she understood her medium, despite her trying to share and help. I could always rely on her to ask how I mixed a certain colour. Zoe Tjanavaras from the Clay Room, would pop in for a lovely catch up after her classes, and at least one time dropping me to the bottle shop so I was set for the night. Cally Traill who would let me peruse her works and ask questions for as long as I wanted.The board and staff, and Greg! All a beautiful part of my world.

The most rewarding gift from NAS was my acception into the Mentorship Program, being paired with James Drinkwater. A phenomenal experience that not only gave me invaluable insight from a beloved and revered Australian artist, but also gave me art/social kudos and cred that I could not have cultivated myself. I only left NAS last year as life had gotten too complicated & I just didn't have the time or energy to spend there. I believe it is an essential part of Newcastle art culture, and an honoured to have been a part of it. Without my time there, I would never have been able to grow as an artist, make the connections, and have the trajectory I currently do.