My foray into fine art began back in 1998 as a busy mum raising 4 young children, with a pressing need to find some ME time. I began a drawing course at TAFE, and discovered a natural drawing ability, but what really ignited my passion to pursue art was the discovery of soft pastels. In the busy sameness of everyday life and chores, I felt the need to create something beautiful and lasting, and I was determined to master this expressive drawing and painting medium with the goal in view to design and paint my own original fine art. I began to study art instruction books initially, and then with time attended many workshops, both in Australia and overseas with both National and International tutors. And so here I am.....2019 is a new beginning for me, I no longer have paid employment, the four children are now fine independent young adults, and the nest is empty. I am able to work full-time on my art.
Each new painting I create represents a celebration of beauty and adventure. The challenge to represent this beauty both intuitively, truthfully and with emotion is my ultimate goal. I have loved the Australian bush landscape since I was a child growing up on the beautiful Atherton Tablelands in Far North Queensland. I now find plenty of inspiration in the natural world around my home in the Noosa Hinterland. A love of travel and exploring has led me to paint in several countries abroad, and also to explore and paint in the Aussie Outback, including Lawn Hill NP, West MacDonnell Ranges, Flinder's Ranges and Uluru.
My talents lie in impressionistic realism, and I really enjoy painting from life, both outdoors and in my studio. In 2014 I was awarded the title of Master Pastellist with the Pastel Society of Australia, in recognition of my technical ability to express my artistic vision in this wonderful medium. I find the soft pastel medium perfect for expressing my love of beauty, be that of the landscape, the sea, still life, floral or portraiture, due to the way I can create subtle layered effects with this dry medium. I also paint studio paintings in oils, a medium I also really enjoy, due to the freedom of mixing harmonious colour palettes. I have been honoured to receive many awards for my work over the years. I teach workshops and demonstrate in the pastel medium.