Richard Scott's debut solo art show, 'Idle Hands', draws inspiration from the adage, "idle hands are the devil's workshop." His curated collection of pen and ink pieces overlay watercolour backgrounds in a showcase that's wickedly unmissable.

Talented artist Richard Scott is a humble and hilarious hand-drawing hooligan who we can't get enough of. 

He's a resident artist at Burleigh's own Mint Art House, and has presented his artworks in group shows at the likes of SWELL and Surface Festival. Now Richard is venturing into his first-ever solo show. 

We caught up with the man behind the mastery to chat about his upcoming art show, inspirations and projects on the horizon. 

What motivated you to pursue a career in art?

Well, I always drew. I just didn't always have the guts to show them to other people. I'd go along to Life Drawing Sessions at Dust Temple, in Currumbin, and then run away when it was time to share your stuff with the group.

What changed for me was the lockdowns. I'd borrowed this book of daily drawing challenges from Elanora Library and then, slowly but surely, I just started filling up sketchbooks like a madman. My wife, Josephine, thinks I have obsessive tendencies. Then, she saw that Mint Art House had a desk going in their studio in Burleigh, so I applied for a guest spot at the end of 2021, and never really left.  

How has your journey led to this significant milestone of your first solo art show?

While at Mint, I had a few pieces in some group shows, and in the Life Drawing Show at Dust Temple. Which was really fun. And I'd done a few outdoor pieces – like a mural for Surface Festival and a sculpture for SWELL. But, I'd never got around to doing a solo show, and I was beginning to run out of excuses not to.

Tell us about the concept or theme behind 'Idle Hands.'

The show is called 'Idle Hands' primarily because everything is hand-drawn and coloured, but also because I'm a little lazy. I tend to work at a snail's pace and draw creepy stuff. So, the old adage 'idle hands are the devil's workshop' seemed quite fitting, really.

What inspired you to explore this theme?

I wouldn't say 'inspired' as much as 'forced into it'. Natalie Popovski from Mint Art House basically took my sketchbooks and told me to turn them all into paintings. She can be very persuasive. I'm probably only doing this show because I'm scared of her.

Your art often includes elements of Gold Coast culture. Did this play a role in your upcoming exhibition?

I bloody love old Gold Coast culture. Or, at least, what's left of it. I'm a little consumed with collecting old postcards, and tea-towels, and fridge magnets from the glory days. My next show, after 'Idle Hands', will all be Gold Coast themed. Keep your eyes peeled.

What challenges have you faced while putting this collection together, how did you overcome these?

Everything is on paper, in pen and ink, and on a watercolour background. The problem with that is that you have no margin for error. When you stuff up, you really stuff up. I've had to chuck out quite a few along the way. It's often quite fiddly and frustrating work.

Are there specific messages or emotions you aim to convey through your pieces?

I'd be a fraud if I claimed there was anything deep about my work. The theme is fairly loose, to be honest. It's a collection of portraits from real life, old books and the internet. Heroes, cult leaders, friends, old movies and my kids. It's simply a series of things I like to draw.

Any artists, historical figures or creators who had influence on your work and style?

I'm really fortunate to be a member at Mint. I love that place. It's like a little supportive workshop. Good eggs. Special mention to Dion Parker, Courtenay McCue, Steve Gorman, Sam Haven and Nat who've helped me put this show together in one way or another.

Style-wise, I'm a big fan of international illustrators like Mike Mignola, Ryan Gajda and Adams Carvalho, and printmakers like Evan Hecox, Jim Madison, and Justin Moll. All worth a follow.

What are your plans for the future? What should we keep an eye out for?

Continuing the Gold Coast theme, I'm turning the old Currumbin Beach Store into a playable kid's cubby house for next year's SWELL sculpture festival. Last year, I recreated the giant putt-putt golf ball from Mermaid Beach Putt Putt. And, as I said before, in early 2024 I'm looking at doing a series of Gold Coast inspired paintings of local businesses, logos, buildings and signage. 

Idle Hands is showing at Mint Art House in Burleigh at 6-9pm on Saturday October 14.

For more information about Richard, visit mintarthouse.com/richard-scott