Antoinette O’Brien’s sculptural works present an ongoing inquiry into personal memory, social structures, and location. Appearing initially as portraits of singular figures, deeper investigation reveals multilayered works that respond to O’Brien’s contemplation on life, world events, and the influence of humanity on the environment. Further inspiration also comes from the community dynamics she sees playing out in her town.

Constructed from multiple narratives – a complex web of internal and external worlds, familial relationships, her own mental health, and childhood recollections – the works are supported by constructed landscapes.

Antoinette O’Brien trained in Visual Arts at the University of Tasmania (2006-2012), majoring in Printmaking and Sculpture, before undertaking further studies in Figurative Ceramics, Dry Glazing and Ceramic Sculpture at the Australian National University, National Art School and Tom Bass Sculpture School respectively. She was the winner of the 2020 Hurford Hardwood Portrait Prize, Lismore Regional Art Gallery, recipient of the 2019 Franz Porcelain Design Scholarship in Jingdezhen, China.