Olivia O'Sullivan ARWS painting en plein air at Beachy Head
My first connection with the Royal Watercolour Society came through the RWS Open Competition. I was lucky to have a painting accepted four times, receiving the RWS Award in 2019, and the Cass Art Solo Exhibition Award in 2020.
What drew me to applying to the RWS was being part of a community of artists who work with water-based media on paper. I was elected as an Associate Member in 2022, following submission of my portfolio. I was genuinely thrilled to join such a diverse and talented group. Having the opportunity to exhibit at the Bankside Gallery four times a year, together with further opportunities, is both exciting and, in the best way, challenging.
Olivia O'Sullivan ARWS, Recycling Plant from Train, SE14, acrylic
Being an artist happened to me later in life although I had always drawn and painted. I had first studied music and then had a fulfilling and creative career in education and research before seriously taking up art. I completed the two year Fine Art course at City Lit and began showing my work in 2018 in exhibitions and galleries, mainly with a group of colleagues from the City Lit course. I still work with them, as part of The Holborn Group. Applying to join the RWS was a big step, I tried twice and was elected the second time. It was real progress for me, both personally and professionally.
Since joining, as well as taking part in exhibitions, I’ve taken on the role of Education Officer on the RWS Council. I’m especially passionate about creating opportunities for children from state schools to come to the gallery and take part in workshops, hopefully lighting a spark for artists of the future. I also enjoy involvement in the development of the new RWS Whitcomb Street Gallery and the friendship and collegiality of artists in the RWS community.
Olivia O'Sullivan ARWS, French field #10, acrylic
My work is mainly landscapes, based on extensive sketchbooks. I focus mainly on the urban landscape, the blocks of flats, streets and industrial buildings of Southeast London where I live, and the rural landscapes of the English coast and the Drôme region of France. I work using a process of location-based sketches, moving and still photography and studio based work.
RWS Artist Membership: now open for applications
Deadline: Monday 19th May 2025
Apply now
April 17, 2025
