This week Nicola and Di chat to the incredible story teller, Tim Olsen. Tim is one of Australia’s most recognised and respected art identities, successful gallery owner and prize winning author. He is also the son of one of Australia’s most famous artists, John Olsen. 

In this episode, Tim shares what it was like living under the shadow of his father and how he had to fight hard to make a name for himself in the art world. He talks openly about the complex relationship he had with his father, the struggles they had, the disappointments, but ultimately the love and respect they had for one another and how they were all together the day that John died. 

Tim opens up about how he used alcohol to cope with disappointments and trauma, and the slippery slope he started going down into alcoholism. He also shares his rock bottom moment and how he fought his way out of the hole and came out the other side, thriving. We hear some incredible stories about the time he spent in rehab at the Betty Ford Center and how Tim was one of the lucky ones. 

We also hear about Tim’s successful gallery, and why he can’t stand when the art world is pretentious. He has a refreshing perspective about art, welcomes everyone in his gallery and wants to help anyone be able to feel a connection with beautiful art. 

This conversation is a really beautiful one. Tim is open, honest, vulnerable and full of great stories about his life. He also shares lots of pearls of wisdom in this chat, so make sure you stay tuned until the end. We hope you enjoy listening to Tim as much as we enjoyed speaking with him. 

Follow Tim Olsen on IG here

Follow Olsen Gallery on IG here

Find out more about Olsen Gallery here

Buy Son of the Brush here

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