In Conversation: Yolan Eke

Yolan Eke is a talented artist living on the Gold Coast, whose stunning works have become a favourite among our team and clients.

With a unique blend of earthy and pastel colours, gestural strokes and varied textures, Yolan's art captures the beauty and essence of the coastal lifestyle.

We sat down with Yolan to dive into her creative process, inspirations, and what makes her artwork so special. Join us as we get to know the artist behind the gorgeous pieces that adorn our store walls.

Explore Yolan's works here.

Where are you from and where are you now? 

I'm originally from Brisbane, spent two decades in New Zealand, recent years in Spain and now living in the Gold Coast.

Where did you first discover your love for creating?

I’ve always loved to create - something I inherited from my parents and was always encouraged to pursue. I was painting in my mid 20’s in New Zealand - a journey that’s been intertwined with interior design, which I focused on more at that time. 

The desire to create art never left but was reignited in 2018 when we moved to Spain. When I returned to Australia in 2020 and realised a 15 year absence from seriously painting was long enough. There was this vibrant energy in Spain that got me all fired up and I wanted to keep the memories alive, I wanted it to be a part of me. Painting my Mediterranean and Moroccan pieces - I’m taken straight back there in my imagination and it all comes flowing out. 

I find painting incredibly exciting, sometimes scary but as the saying goes if it doesn’t challenge you it doesn’t change you. 

What does a day in the life of Yolan Eke look like? 

Routine isn’t really part of my personality so each day is different but nothing productive or creative happens until I have my morning coffee by the pool, if the sun is shining the caffeine kicks in fast. Then I head to my studio which opens to a gorgeous view of the Gold Coast hinterland, with that, fresh air and consulting my sketch book, I am primed for creativity. 

Once I’m painting the time escapes me but Sean, my husband and business partner reminds me to eat and refuel.

Each day consists of a some exercise, either walking our dog Reggie by the beach, around the hinterland or a swim in the pool. Being immersed in creation is a moving force for all my art. Each week I also am involved in volunteer work that adds a very meaningful dimension to my life. 

And as any mother knows, the days are full and evening are busy, so once Scarlett arrives home it’s a rush against time with homework, dinner and desperately trying to not trek paint all through our house. Scarlett is a fantastic cook and often enjoys meal prepping and baking for the family. After dinner we enforce a little device free family time to catch up.

The late hours of the night are spent sitting candle lit (I have a mood lighting obsession) cosied up with a cup of tea or on Fridays a cocktail - courtesy of my husband who moonlights as my personal bartender, doing my best to stay up to date with the work admin that I swear every creative mind dreads.

In short, each day is different but the priorities are the same - family, wellbeing, creation and recharging. 

We love your unique style and the colours in your works. Who, where and/or what do you turn to for inspiration? 

I believe inspiration is everywhere! Traveling has definitely sparked my creativity, but even simple everyday moments and new experiences keep my imagination buzzing. A walk on the beach, a visit to one of our favourite local cafés or flipping through a magazine can get me excited and ready to dive back into my studio with fresh ideas. 

Many of your pieces reference places or landscapes - do you have a favourite ‘place’ you love to paint and why?

I can’t get enough of the ocean, though I do find myself drawn to a few favourite spots. San José, my favourite beach in Spain, frequently inspires my paintings. The almost dessert like backdrop and those perfect hues of the Mediterranean, alongside Byron Bay here at home and the iconic left hand break of Raglan, New Zealand 

Why? IYKYK - or start packing!! 

Texture is a key element in your works - can you tell us a bit about the materials and tools you use to make your creations?

I typically use palette knives to create texture in my artwork, and I also love using brushes for bold, gestural strokes and varied textures. I like to mix things up and enjoy working with both oil and acrylic paints for the different results I achieve and I’m passionate about experimenting with new mediums and impasto techniques. I seem to be always researching and exploring new approaches to my art process. 

If you had to describe your art style in 3 words, what would they be?

Expressive

Textured

Fluid 

If you had to pick a favourite piece right now, which would it be and why? 

It’s tough to pick a favourite because I love them all, but right now, "Village Life No.2" stands out for me. This piece offers an abstract take on the essence of village life in an old town. While there’s a vibrant energy the Spanish really know how to unwind and savour life, blending activity with tranquility seamlessly. I used a lot of texture to represent the layers of time, the enduring sense of antiquity despite modern influences, and I love how the subtle depiction of people going about their lives adds to the atmosphere of the piece, I like to think they’re heading home for a siesta after coffee in the plaza. 

What are you currently watching, reading and/or listening to? 

Apart from the obvious…. Friends and Seinfeld (typical I’d say of 99% of the population). I’m watching A Gentleman in Moscow atm which I love. Also listening to Art Juice Podcast - all things art related.

But let’s be honest, sometimes I’m just listening to my intrinsic thoughts in silence... which is a love hate relationship. 

I’m also about to go on holiday to Bali!!! so I’m on the hunt for a few new books! 

Explore Yolan's works here.