Hello all, welcome to my virtual gallery and retail space! My name is Amanda Johnson and I live and paint in Broken Hill in outback NSW, Australia. As a 4th generation local I have a deep love of my home town. The people, places and colours inform much of my work, as do my family of supportive husband and two gorgeous children.
Following 5 years as Payroll Officer at the South Mine, I decided I needed a better outlet for my creativity. This led to a career change and the opening of my own ceramic teaching studio. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to develop my own style, and to guide others as they did the same.
From there it was a progression of both artistic style and workspace until my current atelier of Willy Nilly Art. Housed in a Heritage building in Broken Hill’s main street, WNA is a working Studio, Gallery and retail space where everyone is welcome to browse, buy, or just stop by for a chat.
There's less scope for a chat with the virtual store, but I'm endeavouring to showcase a range of artworks, prints and decor items, and I take commissions, so if you were looking for something specific please send an email. I'll work with you to make sure you end up with something you'll love, or that you'll love to give. Please take a look at the Gallery for some examples.
I'm also an Ambassador for our amazing Lifeline Country to Coast and thoroughly advocate getting help when you need it, finding what works for you and being able to say you're not okay if you're not okay. I have had my own struggles and being creative was one of my solutions, as was talking. If you would like to hear more, please check out the Holding Onto Hope Podcasts (mine among them) available for free from Lifeline Australia. Lifeline is there for anyone, anytime.
WNA is also the exclusive bricks and mortar stockist of my daughter Lauren’s brand, Daise & Vi. Featuring a range of handmade Jewellery and occasional Art, Daise & Vi is something Lauren does in between mustering goats with her partner on a property just outside of Wilcannia. Luckily, her unique creations are also available online at Daise & Vi
I hope you enjoy my store, and my work, and please drop into WNA next time you're in Broken Hill. I'll likely be painting in the studio at the back of the gallery space and would love to say hello in person!
Cheers,
Amanda
