Bloomfield Fine Art Gallery Terrigal

On a quiet spring afternoon, before the rush of the summer holiday crowds, local artist Karen Bloomfield’s focus is broken as she glances away from her canvas, brush in hand, as a stranger walks into the space she is working in. A welcoming smile breaks out across her face as she greets them, and gently opens a friendly conversation about the artworks surrounding them.

As the newcomer’s gaze settles on a huge piece hanging on the wall by fellow local artist Claire Tozer, their eyes flicker with awe and admiration as they take in the scattered and layered lines and endless shades of green, unravelling before them.

The space is Bloomfield Fine Art Gallery, in the heart of Terrigal, where Karen has recently opened the doors to a welcoming sanctuary for art enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Karen’s vision was to offer the community both a gallery and workshop where the art and diverse creativity of our incredible local talent isn’t just displayed, but embraced, shared, and treasured. 

Every visitor is encouraged to explore, ask questions, and share their unique perspectives, for, as Karen believes, “Art is such an individual thing; what you think and feel about a piece is completely different to the next person… I like to ensure visitors know that’s completely acceptable.”

Bloomfield Fine Art Gallery Terrigal

One of the defining features of Bloomfield Fine Art Gallery is the transparency it offers to its visitors. Karen’s commitment to demystifying the artistic process is evident in the gallery’s setup, with an artist constantly at work. 

“People love seeing the bones of how a piece comes together, how it’s made. For some, it’s a uniquely new experience,” she said.

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Her journey into the world of art was deeply personal. Karen told Coasties, “I was 39, successful working in small businesses and corporate roles and had a breakdown. I didn’t think I knew what that was about but my mother died shortly after turning 40 and I felt that I needed to change direction; honour myself and my dreams. I enrolled in TAFE and never looked back.”

This transformative experience empowered her to follow her passion and unleash her creative spirit. Today, Karen is an advocate for late bloomers and those who are told they’re “too old” to pursue their dreams, and her journey to become an acclaimed artist has made her view the world differently. 

“I can create something and then step back and realise, it wasn’t in the world before. That is powerful; it makes my life so much richer,” she said. 

Fine Art Gallery in Terrigal 

Her gallery reflects this newfound perspective, where art is a catalyst for change, growth, and appreciation.

“To watch someone come in and just stare at a piece of work because it’s affecting them, it’s so powerful,” Karen said.

Karen also takes immense pride in the quality of local artwork showcased at Bloomfield Fine Art Gallery. 

“People really appreciate that, and the local artists really appreciate that. It’s really nice that we are able to support other artists, and we should be really proud of the quality of the local artwork.” 

The gallery hosts a wide array of genres and mediums, from oil paintings and acrylics to watercolours, ceramics, printmaking, photography and sculpture. It’s all contemporary art, ranging from realism to abstraction, catering to diverse tastes and budgets. The gallery is a place where everyone can find a piece that resonates with them.

Bloomfield Fine Art Gallery is located at Shop 5 / 6 Campbell Crescent, Terrigal, and is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am. To find out more about upcoming workshops or artists on display, visit Bloomfield Art Gallry’s Online home here.

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