The driving force behind the creativity of artists is explored in Obsessed: Compelled to make, a new exhibition opening at The Workshops Rail Museum on 30 May.

The exhibition, which delves into the processes, practices and passions that fuel art, follows the stories of 14 Australian artists, giving visitors the opportunity to get to know each maker beyond their personality and look into the fundamental conceptual framework of their creations.

Queensland Museum Network CEO Dr Jim Thompson said it was inspiring to see this exhibition from the Australian Design Centre travel to Ipswich, giving new audiences the opportunity to appreciate art beyond the finished work.

“We can all relate to the stories of these artists when we think beyond the finished object to understand what compels people to create,” Dr Thompson said.

“The creative process is fundamentally human, and by uncovering these artists’ inspirations, day-to-day experience, expertise and obsessions we gain a deeper understanding of what it is that drives creativity within us all.

“In celebration of the exhibition, local street artist Ian McCallum has been commissioned to paint a mural within the gallery space, we’re proud to be including creative talent from within the Ipswich community.”

This exhibition explores the act of making through the framework of obsession – how it consumes us, carrying us along in its wake, colouring every aspect of our lives.

With these professional artists, it is their obsessions, and all the associated angst, failures, breakthroughs and milestones, that feeds their productivity and to deliver exceptional outcomes.

Younger visitors inspired by the exhibition are encouraged to get hands-on with an in-gallery Maker Space with educational and creative activities.

To celebrate Obsessed, BrisStyle’s famous Museum Twilight Markets will be moving inside the Museum among the exhibition on Friday, 7 June, and will feature South East Queensland’s best handmade items, food trucks, kids activities and onsite bar.

Obsessed: Compelled to Make is on from 30 May 2019 to 4 August 2019 at The Workshops Rail Museum and is included with Museum entry.