Hello there! I’m Rhi. Your friendly portrait artist and live wedding painter!
I am a dedicated and classically trained oil painter who would love to bring your love story to canvas. I aim for painting realism that captures your essence and personalises your painting to be uniquely yours. If that be a classic romance, or a little more dramatic, cheeky or downright full of laughter. My aim is to capture you in your full authenticity. Tell me all about your story and I’ll be right there on your big day making sure it’s done justice.
How I got here
Ever since I can remember, I've been in love with fairytales and the magic of storytelling through painting. I began expressing my passion through drawing fifteen years ago, I was naturally drawn (hah!) to portrait sketching, in capturing a persons likeness through paper, in not only looks but essence too. It wasn’t until several years later that I took up painting. As funny beginnings go- the first time I picked up a brush was for face painting! A fun side gig I enjoyed, and got me used to how to use a brush. I found that a moving canvas is the best way to make sure you learn quick! But it made me crave more fine art practises and so I began painting with acrylics soon after, and eventually started teaching painting classes around Melbourne at paint and sip studios and private lessons. All while working as a commission artist for mural painting and personal commissions for clients. In 2023 I took the leap into training as a classical oil painter. Since then I’ve been so fortunate to have undergone several mentorships, workshops and supported programs to further my training.
In 2023 I completed my Associates Degree of Illustration where I chose to focus all projects on classical oil painting and furthering research into the craft.
In early 2024, I was fortunate enough to be selected as one of five artists for the prestigious coterie program at the Victorian Artists Society, the longest running heritage art society of Australia. Generously sponsored by the Hansen Little Foundation, myself and four other artists received ongoing training and mentorship from some of Australia’s leading oil painters.
Why weddings?
In November 2023 I was nearing the end of my degree, and I was a bridesmaid at my best friends wedding. While chatting at the reception, their celebrant/MC Alyce Bailey asked me what I do. I said “I’m an oil painter, specialising in portraits” she said “Why not do that at weddings?” .
I had never heard of this concept before, but it stayed with me for months. I finished my degree and spent the summer painting non-stop, working on my technique and speed. By April, I realised it was still on my mind. Wedding painting would be a perfect combination of all my experience of portrait art, live painting and storytelling bundled into one. Plus who doesn’t love weddings?!
In May 2024 I took my easel to a wedding for the first time!
Okay but what about YOU?
If I’m not painting, I’m usually volunteering at Melbourne’s art societies or drawing groups. I’m a huge fan of table top RPG’s, particularly Dungeons and Dragons 5e. You might also find me floating around community musical theatre productions, LARP events or conventions. Hit me up with some nerdy facts if you see me at a wedding, and we’ll be friends for life.
Hi, I’m Rhi!
In my happy place at The Hobbits Hoedown!
Photo courtesy of Owl Bear Weddings
ACHIEVEMENTS & EXHIBITIONS
2023 Finalist Norma Bull portrait exhibition
2023 Finalist- Annual City of Whittlesea art show
2024 Coterie Residency Member at Victorian Artists Society
2024 Autumn Select Exhibition VAS
2024 Winter Select exhibition VAS
2024 Spring Select Exhibition VAS
2025 Summer Select Exhibition VAS
EDUCATION
Associates Degree of Illustration
Gregory R Smith Portrait Painting Mentorship and Ongoing Terms
Kemming Shen Oil Painting Still Life
Lee Machelak Oil Painting Ongoing Terms
Jen Fyfe Portrait Painting Workshop