Humility sure is an attractive trait. In this era of selfies, self promotion and self gratification, it’s rare to come across someone so talented and yet so humble.

I’ve been in awe of CJ Hendry‘s uber realistic, larger-than-life sketches for some time now. Her story is just as inspiring as her art work. Not satisfied with studying architecture or finance, or working in a Chanel boutique, CJ sold her designer wardrobe on eBay to fund her dream to draw. The proceeds went to the purchase of art supplies. From dressing to drawing. CJ finally found her passion and talent in the niche of ‘photo-realism’. Her art works are larger-than life and require the utmost patience, accuracy and craftsmanship to complete. Masculine motifs such as boxing gloves, R.M.Williams boots, Penfold wine bottles, have attracted a devout class of clients and patrons, including Kanye West who had CJ create a $100 bill with his face on it.

’50 Foods in 50 Days’ is CJ Hendry’s latest exhibition. 50 sketches created one each day, depicting gourmet foods ranging from anchovies to walnuts displayed on Hermes plates, is being showcased in a pop up gallery in Fitzroy. Previously a hardware store, the space has undergone tremendous transformation in the past 6 months to become worthy of CJ’s pieces. Black sleek walls set the perfect backdrop for her pieces. In her own words, CJ described the space as having a “Alexander Wang feel”. He must have been a mainstay in her wardrobe?

Bill Tikos, the founder of The Cool Hunter, CJ’s agent, pictured above, created the pop up gallery to illustrate that a traditional art gallery is not the only way to showcase art. So the supporting act to CJ’s gourmet drawings is a fine array of beautifully packaged food products from Australia and around the world. These gourmet produce provide context to the food-themed exhibition and are available to be purchased. 50 Foods in 50 Days is a visual feast, a retail destination for art, food and wine aficionados to come together to enjoy a truly unforgettable ‘gourmet gallery’ experience.

Despite her escalating success, CJ remains grounded. She rarely takes selfies and is super nice. When I complimented her incredible artistic skills, she gave all the credit to the team who set up the space to give her drawings the most visual appeal. But in fact, all 50 of CJ’s sketches sold before the launch!

Contrary to popular belief, humility just may be the secret ingredient to success.

Photography by Peter Tarasiuk

Check out CJ Hendry’s Gourmet Art Experience at 166 Gertrude St Fitzroy, exhibiting until April 12.