Three Over Six are thrilled to introduce the captivating works of Andrew Farmer, a British-born self-taught Australian abstract artist based on the west coast of Australia. With a unique journey that began after a successful flying career in the Royal Air Force, Andrew transitioned to art following a personal family emergency in 2019, reigniting a passion he hadn't pursued since primary school.

We had the pleasure of speaking with Andrew and here’s what he had to say - Andrew’s works are currently on view and available for purchase from Three Over Six. 

Q1. Can you tell us about your background and what initially drew you to art?  

I am a British born self-taught Australian abstract artist based on the west coast of Australia. I started my professional art career quite late in life having had a 10-year flying career in the Royal Air Force before resigning and migrating to Australia over two decades ago. After forging a successful career in the corporate sector, a personal family emergency in 2019 surprisingly lead to taking up painting. Something I hadn’t done since primary school.

Q2. Who or what are your biggest influences as an artist?

I guess I’ve always been fascinated with geometric shapes and bold colours. The style of the late Josef Albers is very evident in my work.

Q3. Can you describe your creative process? How do you approach a new piece of work? 

I begin by exploring different colours and hues in my mind, experimenting until I discover a combination that feels just right. From there, it's all about planning the composition and determining the sequence in which to pour them.

Q4. What materials do you prefer to work with and why?

As my canvas I love to use mirrored aluminium. In some respects it is a nod to the jets of old from my days in the RAF, but more over the rigidity and unique use in resin art. My medium is resin which I dye to get the colour I’m seeking. I relish the challenge of pouring a liquid with similar consistency to warm honey and be able in a very short time frame to form into perfect geometric shapes before it starts to harden. Very satisfying.

Q5. Are there specific themes or messages you aim to convey through your art?  

Not really. I don’t try and tell a story with my art, but I do have fun naming them.

Q6. How do current events or personal experiences shape your work? 

They don't.

Q7. How has your style evolved over the years?

My style hasn’t really evolved over the past 5 years, but rather the techniques I employ.

Q8. What have been some of the most significant challenges you have faced in your artistic journey? 

The main one has to be finding the right Galleries and outlets for my work.

Q9. Can you share a memorable experience from an exhibition or collaboration?

I did a self funded solo show in Perth early last year and although I had people come through I hadn’t in the four weeks of exhibiting sold any works locally. Admittedly I had sold a handful to my overseas collectors, but none locally. Until five minutes before the end of the exhibition and I was just about to close up for the very last time when a lady walked straight in, declared it was her birthday, pointed to the big piece in the window asking if it was available which upon hearing it was bought it on the spot.

Q10. How do you choose the venues or platforms where you showcase your work?

Carefully.

Q11. What do you hope your audience takes away from your art?

Ideally, I want my art to evoke emotions—whether it’s a sense of mystery, calmness, or introspection. I hope people walk away from my work feeling that they’ve glimpsed something profound, even if they can’t fully articulate it. That sense of connection between the abstract and the real is something I aim for, allowing each person to find their own meaning in the pieces.

Q12. How important is audience feedback to your creative process? 

Not very. Art is subjective and no more so for abstract art. I create what I like and that’s all that’s ever mattered.

Q13. Are there any upcoming projects or exhibitions that you are particularly excited about?

Yes. In particular I have a film production company interested in doing a short documentary next year of my art and my artistic journey.

Q14. What is next for you as an artist? Any new directions you are exploring? 

Still looking at options to exhibit overseas again. Have some good options for London, New York and Mallorca.

Q15. What advice would you give to aspiring artists looking to make a name for themselves?

Find Your Unique Voice: Experiment with different styles, mediums, and subjects to find what resonates with you. This will help you develop a distinct artistic identity that sets you apart from others.

Q16. How can artists stay true to their vision while also appealing to a wider audience?

Balancing personal authenticity with relatable themes, finding universal elements in their work that resonate with others, and using feedback as inspiration without compromising their core creative values.

Q17. What does success look like to you in your artistic career? 

Creating pieces that resonate with people and evoke emotions. It’s about having my work appreciated in galleries or exhibitions, and building a community around my art. I also find success in continually pushing my boundaries, experimenting with new techniques, and staying true to my vision. Ultimately, it’s the joy of making and sharing my art that defines success for me.

Andrew Farmer's artistic journey is a testament to the power of resilience and self-discovery. His bold use of colour and geometric shapes not only reflects his unique background but also invites viewers to connect with their emotions on a deeper level. As his works continue to grace the walls of Three Over Six, we encourage you to immerse yourself in the vibrant world he creates. Whether you're an art aficionado or a casual observer, Andrew's pieces offer a captivating glimpse into the mind of an artist who is not just creating art, but also forging a path of personal expression and exploration. We invite you to come and experience his art for yourself, perhaps finding a piece that resonates with you, sparking inspiration and reflection in your own life.