TESTIMONIALS

Knowing the practices of many of the artists before they enter The Path, I’m amazed at how they are transformed through the program. They emerge able to talk confidently about their work in the context of contemporary practice and with new works or works in development that are focussed and relevant.
- Megan Williams, USC Gallery Director, 2022 

The Path provides a unique opportunity for artists to interrogate what they do, why they do it and what they want to do next in a guided and supported space alongside a focussed group of like-minded peers. It’s different to what you might experience in art school and definitely something that is hard to achieve when you’re first set adrift into the art world by yourself. It seem that the path gives artists the space and the tools to reflect critically on what they want their art practices to do and be next. But it’s also a really fertile space for fostering collaborations, professional relationships and new ideas. I’ve personally been really impressed with the excitement and vision that each artist shares in their presentations at the conclusion of The Path and can see many of them on the cusp of projects and opportunities that might not otherwise come about.
- Michael Brennen, Noosa Regional Gallery Director 2022

I don't know if I've got enough adjectives to fully describe how amazing it was to be a part of The Path.

You've been incomparable. Your generosity, your precision, your wisdom. It's been extraordinary. It was one of the most artistically rigorous, rich, nuanced, practical professional developments I've ever had the privilege to be a part of. In my experience, it's unparalleled. I've never even heard of anything that delivers in this way and across so many facets of practice.  

Being introduced to the other artists in the program, to get to know their practices, hearing about the new directions they're moving in too, and even just being able to talk 'shop' with other artists is invaluable. And the other mentors! 

-Ruby Donohoe, The Path 2021
Co-Director of IN-ARI founded in 2022 (Photo Tim Birch)

Inhabited Ipswich and The Path was pivotal in expanding my arts practice into new directions and introducing me to the Ipswich creative community. Kellie was generous with her time and knowledge and under her guidance I was able to realise an ambitious project that has directly led to further  opportunities.

- Sean Williams, The Path x Inhabited, Ipswich (2023)      

In the past year, Kellie O’Dempsey’s mentorship through ‘The Path’ has been instrumental in steering my artistic practice. Kellie’s unique blend of energy and expertise has driven me to rethink my creative process, encouraging me to venture into new mediums and conceptual exploration. This shift, nurtured by Kellie’s guidance, has played a role in my recent achievements, including my selection as a 2023 finalist for The Churchie National Emerging Art Prize and current international opportunities for Ars Electronica in Austria and as a Hacklab Artist/Fellow at the 2024 CTM x Transmediale Festival in Berlin, Germany. Her approach, which focused on pushing and challenging participants’ artistic boundaries, has been less about conventional learning and more about exploring the unknown territories within your practice.

- Amanda Bennetts, Noosa Region (2024)
(Photo Warwick Gow)

I've been mentored by Kellie O'Dempsey both in group programs, such as 'The Path' , 'Project 24' and 'Project Lab', as well as my own personal development through RADF. Kellie has been a pivotal guide post within my arts practice. She is full of encouragement and enthusiasm that supports any direction or projects I want to take on. I have learnt so much about the creative industry, art history and myself with her guidance, she is truly a powerhouse of knowledge, ideas and support. To any creatives, no matter what stage you are in, I highly recommend you connect with Kellie and receive the guidance and support you and your art deserve! 

- Shikani Sargent, Nambour (2023-25)

Photo: This House Moves Without Me, 2023

Over the past year, through both group and individual mentoring, Kellie has played a pivotal role in transforming my art practice. As an emerging artist, I came to her with ideas and potential — and with her guidance, I’ve developed the clarity, confidence, and structure needed to bring my first solo exhibition to life.

Kellie supported me through every stage of the process, from concept to completion, as I created a multi-disciplinary body of work incorporating painting, drawing, installation, and video. Her deep knowledge of materials and techniques, paired with a sensitivity to the more intangible, intuitive aspects of art-making, has been invaluable.

What sets Kellie apart is not only her generous insight and encouragement, but also her ability to meet each artist where they are. Now that the exhibition is complete, she continues to mentor me through the ‘what next’ — helping me navigate future directions with care and vision.

I’m deeply grateful for her mentorship and would recommend her wholeheartedly to any artist seeking meaningful growth in their practice.

-Rose Watts, Atherton Tablelands, Far North Queesnland (2023 - 25)