Photo copyright Bec Behsman
About the Artist
Amber grew up in Western New South Wales and Queensland’s Darling Downs and understands the connection between the land and the people who work it. This is reflected in every piece of her work. The identity of these people becomes intertwined with seemingly insignificant items, such as boots and hats. Amber has gained acclaim for her portrayed aspects of rural life, from working horses to working dogs, water pumps and leathered saddles to weathered hands that are so realistically depicted.
Using boot polish (Australian made/owned product) mixed with other mediums, Amber captures the character of these subjects and summarises the essence of rural life. A self-taught artist whose life always resolved around horses and art, Amber moved from Toowoomba to Goondiwindi.
“Toowoomba is a beautiful city, but I am a small town country girl. I’m an independent parent with a little boy and I want him to enjoy the freedom I had as a kid growing up in a rural community”, Amber said.
Now residing in Central New South Wales, her work continues to represent rural Australia and its people. Amber travels to properties belonging to relatives at Goodooga, Wanaaring and Dubbo for inspiration. “I also attend every polo, rodeo, cutting and camp drafting event I can get to. The people who bring their animals to compete in these events are wonderful inspirations for my work. No matter which area of interest, I find they have a common bond—they love their animals, they work hard, they play hard; that combination is fantastic for me as an artist”.