In our ongoing celebration of craft and materiality, we turn our attention to artist Brian Connolly - a maker whose work holds a quiet kind of power.

Through masterful layering and form, Brian’s pieces invite you to pause, look closer, and feel the depth beneath the surface. This month, we’re thrilled to share a conversation with Brian and to welcome his work into our studio.

You’re a painter first and foremost, but is there any other artistic medium or expression that is incorporated into your practice?

My work spans murals, textiles, and ceramics. I love exploring different mediums even in nature - like drawing flowing lines in the sand and letting the waves wash them away. There’s something beautiful about those ephemeral moments.

Describe your work in three words.

Ethereal, Expressive, Spiritual… HEALING. (Okay, that’s four!)

What do most people misunderstand about artists or your art?

The “struggling artist” stereotype is everywhere, but I don’t think you should have to suffer for your work. Art is subjective, and reactions from others aren’t a reflection of you personally. I was a full-time artist for seven years before working casually for Marz, and I’m proud of that journey. Learning to release attachment to others’ opinions has been freeing.

Is there an artwork you are most proud of? Why?

I’m proud of painting large-scale murals for Edwards & Co and Mecca in Sydney, and seeing my work on Art Ink Gin was a thrill. Every piece reflects my personal evolution and the emotions I was experiencing at the time. Being conscious of growth is powerful, and if that shows through in my work—well, that’s something to celebrate.

How does your environment shape the themes and aesthetics of your art?

Nature is deeply healing and inspiring for me. Time spent in quiet, peaceful corners of the natural world brings freedom and fluidity into my work. I aim to capture the rhythms of nature and the ethereal quality of otherworldly realms in everything I create.

Is there another artist or artwork that has been influential on your practice?

Many! Early Australian artists like Arthur Boyd, Brett Whiteley, and Joy Hester captivated me, as have contemporary artists like Del Kathryn Barton. Chegals’ dreamscapes are perfection, and Frida Kahlo’s fearlessness is endlessly inspiring.

Mark Rothko also had a profound impact—standing in a dark room at London’s Tate Modern, I was moved to tears by the subtle power of his colours and compositions. Picasso’s line work has influenced me too—I call myself “Bricasso,” haha!

Can art exist without emotion, or is feeling essential?

Emotion is essential. Art without feeling would be so dull. For me, emotion is what gives work its power and resonance. If it’s devoid of feeling, I don’t want a bar of it!

How do you navigate the tension between control and surrender in creation?

Surrender is key. Letting go allows me to fully immerse myself in the work and enter a flow state. That’s where the magic happens - being present, channeling, and feeling free in the moment. It takes practice, but moving from the head into the heart is everything.

How do you decide when a piece is “finished”?

I don’t think a piece is ever truly finished—our style is always evolving. But in the moment, when it feels resolved, there’s a sense of peace in setting it free into the world.

Brian’s Framed Art Cards are now available both in-store and via the Marz Designs website, offering the perfect way to bring his inspiring work to your space.