The Artist

Liana Vargas is a figurative oil painter based in Hahndorf, South Australia.

At 48 Liana decided to retire from dancing and pursue her life-long passion for painting. Enrolling as a full-time student at the Adelaide Central School of Art marked a significant shift in her pursuit of artistic expression.

Before moving away from performance, Liana had forged a 25 year career in flamenco dance theatre. She started dancing in Sydney under the guidance of Strictly Ballroom’s Antonio Vargas, who was also her partner at the time. She soon found herself dancing professionally in Europe, United Kingdom, America and South America.

Though she has transitioned away from theatre, its impact remains evident in Liana’s artwork. Her performances were characterised by her ability to resonate emotionally and forge connections with her audience, a skill she carries into her painting.

Bold and sure, Liana’s paintings show a willingness to express with courage and colour, capturing the essence, spirit and inner-glow of her subjects.

As well as painting and exhibiting Liana has also built a strong reputation as a generous and inspiring instructor. To compliment this are her Art Retreats for painters to attend in Australia and Europe.

Liana has created, on her own terms, a brilliant life of artistic expression.