Steph Ranty talks Mindscapes Exhibition
Hi Steph, thanks for talking with us. Could you tell us a bit about where are you from and where grew up?
I'm a local! I grew up on the Gold Coast, but I did move to Canberra for about 8 years working for the Federal Government.
When did you first start painting/drawing?
I have been creating things for as long as I can remember - those were the days we only had paper and pencils to keep busy and quiet instead of an iPad! I loved it because I was a daydreamer, always off in my own world and creativity was a natural extension of that.
What is your artist process like? Do you have a set intention for each painting or does it come more organically?
Very organic and intuitive - I go in with no plan or expectation and just improvise. I rely on conceptual skills over technical skills and I never liked structure or rules. Even when drawing, I prefer to just put pen on paper and see where it takes me. It can be very freeing to release control.
This series of abstract paintings for the Mindscapes exhibition started out as an avenue for me to let off steam or switch my mind off by randomly throwing colours onto the canvas, just going with whatever comes to me in that flow state.
How has being a resident at Mint impacted you and your art?
I am so grateful that Mint exists! Being part of an artist collective on the Gold Coast has played a huge role in not only my creative progression but also my confidence in my abilities. Through Mint I have access to a bunch of diverse local artists who are all awesome and readily offer advice, assistance, encouragement and a general feeling of community. It feels like a safe space.
The arts scene on the Gold Coast can sometimes be difficult to nagivate, and creating art in itself can be quite an independent and isolating thing. Since joining Mint I really feel part of a family where I am able to support and immerse myself in the local creative industry by networking and attending inspiring exhibitions and events that I may have otherwise been unaware of.
What is your background with art therapy?
I myself was part of a weekly outpatient art therapy group and it was there that I realised its depth and merit as a therapeutic modality. I saw firsthand how much it helped myself and others emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually on a deeper subconscious level - something that traditional talk therapy struggles to achieve.
For a long time I felt pulled towards a career where I could use my lived experience to help others, be creative, authentic and feel fulfilled. I realised that art therapy merged my two greatest interests: psychology and art, so I began my studies and working with vulnerable youths in 2023.
Why is art therapy important to you?
Art therapy is important to me because it has helped me immensely and I believe it’s an underrated form of therapy in which its advantages are only in the early stages of being fully realised and utilised in various settings. Studies are starting to show its effectiveness working within the subconscious and its ability to allow people to gain a greater understanding of themselves.
It’s an expressive outlet that provides non-verbal means of expression allowing individuals to convey thoughts, emotions and experiences that may be difficult to articulate verbally. The act of creating art can help individuals externalise their feelings and gain a sense of control over their emotional experiences; an emotional release. Self-exploration and insight is a big part of art therapy and reflecting on an artwork can facilitate a deeper understanding of oneself. It also promotes mindfulness, empowerment and confidence, builds coping skills and resilience by fostering a sense of accomplishment and mastery through creative expression. Group art therapy is wonderful when it comes to social connection and building a sense of community - sharing the creative process with others can enhance communication skills, empathy, and a sense of belonging. I have seen the personal growth that comes with art therapy and it means a lot for me to be a part of driving this field forward.
What music have you been listening to while painting?
Lately I've been listening to neoclassical, experimental/lofi and trip-hop music while painting. I love music that is emotive or contemplative to help me express myself. I also like to listen to audiobooks and podcasts while painting or drawing.
What about abstract painting lends itself to therapy?
Abstract painting can be particularly therapeutic for several reasons including non-verbal expression, freedom and experimentation, emphasis on process over product, symbolic representation, release of control, cathartic expression, personal interpretation, emotional exploration as well as mindfulness and presence though the tactile/sensory experience.
Overall, abstract painting offers a unique and flexible medium for self-expression, exploration, and therapeutic growth. Its openness to interpretation and emphasis on process make it a valuable tool for anyone seeking a creative and non-verbal outlet for their emotions and thoughts.
What artists/authors/musicians/people inspire you?
So many artists inspire me! From Rothko, Basquiat, Frida Kahlo, to local and lesser-known Australian artists, I’m always inspired by the dedication and courage it takes to lay everything bare as an artist. For authors, Carl Jung’s books inspire contemplation. And a musician I love is Lana Del Rey for her ability to create a romantic, dreamy, cinematic universe within each song.
What does this upcoming exhibition mean to you?
This exhibition is a huge deal to me! I dreamt of being an artist since I was a child and having my first ever solo exhibition is a major milestone which I couldn't have done without Mint Art House and my fellow Minties who have been so encouraging and supportive. It can be intimidating exposing your creations to the world with all its judgements as a highly sensitive person, so this process has taught me a lot about embracing vulnerability and making art purely for my own enjoyment.
I started these paintings when I was struggling in a dark period of my life, having experienced debilitating burnout and depression which subsequently led to a diagnosis of Autism/ADHD and Autistic burnout. I really leaned into art as therapy to help wrap my head around some major life changes and personal revelations. There are a lot of emotions and stories behind each piece. They represent the intricacies of the subconscious mind.
Can you tell us a bit about your Art Therapy business?
Alongside preparing for my upcoming exhibition, I have been busy launching my creative arts therapy practice, Harmony Heart Therapy. Group and individual sessions will be on offer, and a goal of mine is to provide free or subsidised sessions for vulnerable members of the community through a not-for-profit branch. 50% of all sale profits from my Mindscapes exhibition will go towards Harmony Heart Therapy.
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