I'm relatively new to art journaling but I've found it to be great soul therapy as a busy full-time artist. This creative outlet allows me to focus on the process without the pressure of perfection, keeping my primary work of painting fresh and enjoyable. Through my journey, I've discovered the gift of sharing the joy of creation with others.

As a full-time acrylic artist and educator nestled in the heart of the Swan Valley in Western Australia, I find inspiration in the resilience and architectural beauty of native Australian plants. My artwork celebrates vibrant colours and the interplay of light and form, reflecting my heartfelt connection to nature. With a flair for flora, my paintings are a testament to my passion for spreading joy through art.

My work has been exhibited in galleries and exhibitions both in Australia and internationally, garnering attention from private and corporate collectors alike. Beyond my artistic endeavours, I am committed to empowering others to express themselves creatively. Through regular workshops, I share my passion and skills, inspiring others to find their voice in the world of art.

I believe that art has the power to connect people to the natural world, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of our environment. My aim is to bring joy and inspiration to all who encounter my work. With a mission to create more beauty one painting at a time, my journey as an artist and educator continues to uplift and inspire.

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What does Art is Magic mean to you?

Art is Magic embraces the transformative power of creativity. Through art, I've witnessed strangers become friends, hearts connect across divides, and the mundane turn into moments of pure wonder.

Why do you create art?

Art is my full-time pursuit to happiness. Like breathing oxygen sustains the body, art sustains the spirit. It's not just about what you see; it's about what you feel, what you experience—a world of enchantment where healing and joy blend in the strokes of a brush or a wave of the pencil.

Tell us about your journey to become an artist?

In primary school, Art was my favourite class. My art teacher’s callous criticism made me determined to pursue art and eventually switching schools to do so. My year 12 teacher, in contrast, nurtured my enthusiasm, encouraging me to study design in college. After a career in graphic design in South Africa, I took maternity leave and eventually moved to Australia with my husband leaving my creative life behind. Despite enjoying time with my children, frequent moves over almost a decade left me feeling disconnected. Back surgery and a care package of art supplies from a dear friend reignited my passion for creating, leading to my first acrylic paintings and a return to art in June 2014.

Tell us about your journey to claim the title artist?

I seem to be the exception. I’ve never really had a problem calling myself an artist. It's always been a part of my soul. When I first picked up acrylic painting, I knew I just needed to produce lots of terrible work to improve and I just got on with it. I found myself again in the canvas. I have always created first and foremost for me.

What is it about making art that stirs your soul?

I believe anyone can paint if they really want it. My inspiration comes from the world that surrounds me. I am fascinated by the resilience and architectural beauty of native Australian plants; I celebrate vibrant colours and the interplay of light and form in my paintings. I believe art has the power to connect people to the natural world, fostering a deeper appreciation of our environment.

What is currently inspiring you?

If I could share one message about my inspiration, I choose happy. Life is always messy and full of complications. If you wait for the perfect moment, life will just pass you by. My art is created from little moments of joy every day.

What does your creative Practice look like?

My creative practice revolves around short, purposeful sessions, mainly in the mornings when I'm most productive. While I don't paint daily, I'm in my studio every day, usually for 2-3 hour blocks, with breaks to tend to chores. Family is my priority, and I try to maintain regular office hours to balance work and family life. Despite being a full-time artist, administrative tasks are also part of the routine, though I'd prefer to paint all day.

How do you keep your creative practice fresh and inspired?

When I feel stuck, I love immersing myself in nature, whether it's a visit to Kings Park Botanic Garden or exploring a local Nature Reserve. Living in the Swan Valley, Western Australia provides endless inspiration for my art, and I always have my iPhone ready to capture new subjects. I have been known to pull off on the side of the road (safely) to take pictures of the tiniest wildflowers. Plus, connecting with my artist friends over coffee keeps me motivated and inspired.

Experimenting with different supplies and techniques, especially through journaling, is my secret for staying creatively fresh. And indulging in plein air painting and still life “alla prima” (wet on wet usually in one session) work adds a new dimension to my art practice. It's not just work—it's a joyful exploration of creativity!

What sort of creative walls do you hit?

I have a very short attention span and I hit creative walls faster than a squirrel on caffeine. Deadlines are my lifeline, and I'm the queen of last-minute magic. I am challenged when it comes to advanced planning and long to-do lists often overwhelm me. Somehow, it always seems to get done.

What do you do to move through them?

When I hit creative walls, I embrace the process. Time, coffee, and good sleep fuel my journey. I’m committed to never letting myself down, leveraging my worry into creative energy. With patience and determination, I push through, confident in my ability to overcome any obstacle. I’ve had loads of practice at this.

How has your process evolved?

Over time, I’ve gathered knowledge from others, adapted it to fit my style, practiced consistently, and developed a cohesive process I understand well. Embracing the ugly stages, I’ve learned to navigate uncertainties, trust my process and remain pragmatic throughout. I am constantly learning and evolving my practice.

What do you wish you had known at the beginning of your creative journey?

Nothing really. I’ve enjoyed my journey. What I do say to others always is that is consistency is key, and anyone can paint if they truly want to.

My favourite quote: “Don’t think about making art, just get it done. Let everyone else decide if it’s good or bad, whether they love it or hate it. While they are deciding, make even more art.” – Andy Warhol

Do you have a Creative Self Care Practice?

This is a tricky one. I need to do more for my own self-care. I'm working on being more active regularly. Covid has moulded me into a couch potato, and we have evolved into binge series watchers on the weekends.

I’ve struggled to find a consistent routine. I do try to eat well and spend quality time with my family. I value quiet time and good sleep when it is needed. I go for regular massages, practice gentle yoga when I remember and walk in the parks weekly.

 Do you have any creative rituals?

I like my space to be clean at the start of every working week. I take time to pack things where they belong and arrange my studio for the week ahead. I also make sure after every session my brushes are cleaned well and other supplies and equipment are either put away or left easily accessible if I’m mid project. I need order as my mind is always cluttered.