Arts Monday recently caught up with renowned artist Wendy Sharpe as she was painting Women’s Empowerment Mural in Newtown. (cnr Church and Federation St.)

Braving the wintery chill, she spoke of the powerful work, its inspiration and the difficulties she had to overcome to complete such a public project. It was more than just an artist at work, the whole scene was a performance piece as a crowd had gathered to watch her in this entertainment-starved Covid world.

Wendy also spoke of her inclusion as one of 55 finalists in this year’s Archibald Prize. This is the 6th time she has been chosen as finalist for this illustrious prize.

She chose for her subject comedian, Magda Szubanski. Wendy describes how Magda’s life story gave her the idea for the painting and how she tried to portray the comedian who continues to  grapple with her demons and those of her family.

“Magic” is the title of her exhibition that is about to open at King Street Gallery on William and runs until 24 October.

Wendy discusses the theme of creativity and the interplay of reality and the imagination that permeate the exhibition.

She also relates the joy of collecting antique frames at French flea markets, in what seems now a lifetime ago, when international travel was still possible.

Arts Monday 28th September 10.30-12.00 or listen back later.