artist jodee knowles

The best finds often happen at unexpected moments. While I was sourcing for the shopping shoot for real living (which I wrote about here), I came across a little, tucked-away gallery in Surry Hills. Friends Of Leon might be small - it's a converted corner terrace - but it's hard to miss. The front window had a massive artwork for a Jodee Knowles exhibition. It was amazing and after a little searching I tracked down the artist.

Perth-based Jodee uses pen and inks on paper to create a water colour effect. Her work has been hugely popular. She has been flown out to LA for exhibitions and the singer Pink is a huge fan - she has not only bought Jodee's work but featured it in her music video "Please don't leave me". Jodee's first solo exhibition at Friends Of Leon was a sellout. She is only 24 years old!

What was your first career job and what path have you taken since? I worked at a PR and marketing firm, I learnt so much about communication and how quickly the world must move for success. I am now a full-time artist, I work on my collections most days.

What’s the best lesson you’ve learnt along the way? Never assume.

What’s your proudest career achievement? My recent solo show in Sydney. It was my first solo show and was a sellout success. It was an amazing feeling to see how many people enjoyed my work and the response I got was overwhelming.

What’s been your best decision? Pursuing my art and remaining true to my practice. This has lead to great things.

Who inspires you? Solitude - a sweet absence of looks.

What are you passionate about? Immortality, which comes from creating art.

Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? Matthew Barney, Rei Kawakubo, Helnwein Gottfried and Lady Gaga.

What dream do you still want to fulfil? Moving to NYC and pursuing my art career.

What are you reading? The Unbearable Lightness of Being By Milan Kundera.