About Fran

Fran Connelley is a south coast-based artist who paints in acrylic on canvas. She has a passion for capturing the shifting light, moods, and sensuality of the Australian coastline. More recently she has rediscovered the quiet, luminous beauty of painting still life. 

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Her approach to still life is heavily influenced by years of painting seascapes. She applies the paint in multiple layers or ‘veils’ of colour to create different effects. Her waves of fabric resemble oceans.

The goal is always to create a strong composition with its own timeless glow.

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​“I paint in acrylics, slowly building up layer after layer of paint to create the effect I want. Whether I’m painting a seascape or still life I’m really just painting light and energy.  If I’m painting water, then I want to convey a sense of transparency. If I’m painting a mandarin, then I want people to see the texture of the skin and feel the warm glow of its incredible colour.”

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Over the years, she developed her skills at the Ku-ring-gai Art Centre and the Waverley Woollahra Art Centre. Her influences are David Hockney, Vermeer, and James McNeill Whistler. Fran also runs painting workshops for beginners.

 

Exhibitions

2026 The Quiet Moments Collection

2025 The Sea Change Collection

2023 Catching My Breath

2022 Coast

2021 Water Girl

2020 Body of Water

2019 Beyond the Shore

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Awards

2026 Finalist, Regional Art Prize

2024 Finalist, Waverley 9x5 Landscape Prize

2022 Finalist, Waverley 9x5 Landscape Prize​

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