Shana Dennis:  How would you describe the work that you do, and are there any dominating themes present in your work? Barbie Procobis: My work, no matter the medium, is always an exploration of psychological ideas. I’m currently working on a body of work that incorporates ideas of dissociation, isolation, regression, and the subconscious. Childhood comforts, and imaginary friends, are also present in my work, even if just as a subtle undertone. But I love when my work has some element of humour, an aspect that make the viewer go “Ha, that’s pretty amusing.”   SD:  Have there been any inspirational people that have supported you in your art  practice? BP: My support network is quite large these days, ranging from old teachers from high school, to artists and designers around Australia who I only know through Facebook! But my biggest supporter is my husband, who puts up with me making a mess in every room of our house and my constant need to think/talk/make art.   SD:  What are some of the things you've accomplished, great or small, when it comes to your art and art practice so far? BP: I think the biggest achievement so far is learning to let go and become more experimental, which has lead to so many exciting things in my practice and makes me a very happy chappy. On top of that, more tangible achievements include being published in the last 3 Semi-Permanent books, being a finalist in the 2009 & 2011 Lloyd Rees Youth Art Prize, and winning the Watt Space Open Show in 2011. SD:  What kind of space do you work in when you create? BP: It really depends on my mood! Some days I love being in the studio at uni, other days I just want to sit at the dining table or on the lounge room floor! But the one place that I’ve always worked is my bed; I love getting into bed with some paper and drawing until I fall asleep. Basically if I have materials, I can and will work anywhere!

SD:  Is there anything you are currently working on, and what are your plans for the future? BP: I’m currently in my last semester of my undergraduate degree, which will conclude with 3 exhibitions at Watt Space Gallery. I’m also co-curating 2 group shows at Watt Space. I’m starting Honours mid-year, and eventually I plan to complete a PhD in Fine Art. But until then I plan to keep making and selling art, exhibiting as often as possible and getting my name out there! SD: Last but not least, where can people find more of your work and keep up to date with what you are up to? BP: You can follow my work on www.facebook.com/bariebo.art, and I am in the process of building an online portfolio!  

Article by Shana Dennis. All images © Barbie Procobis, used with permission