floral white flowers set against a blue background, abstract in loose watercolour floral white flowers set against a blue background, abstract in loose watercolour floral white flowers set against a blue background, abstract in loose watercolour floral white flowers set against a blue background, abstract in loose watercolour — artist's signature floral white flowers set against a blue background, abstract in loose watercolour — edge view floral white flowers set against a blue background, abstract in loose watercolour — detail
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floral white flowers set against a blue background, abstract in loose watercolour
floral white flowers set against a blue background, abstract in loose watercolour
floral white flowers set against a blue background, abstract in loose watercolour
floral white flowers set against a blue background, abstract in loose watercolour — artist's signature
floral white flowers set against a blue background, abstract in loose watercolour — edge view
floral white flowers set against a blue background, abstract in loose watercolour — detail
Painting by Kay Shanley 79 Artworks Sold

Petals and Tides

Watercolour, Paper (Requires Framing)

36cm (W) x 51cm (H) x 0cm (D)

Certificate of Authenticity Included
A$530

Artwork Description

Petals and Tides explores the gentle rhythm between strength and softness. Set against flowing washes of deep blue and teal, delicate ivory petals unfurl with quiet confidence, their golden centres glowing like small embers of resilience.

The layered watercolour background moves like ocean currents — fluid, unpredictable, and alive — while the blossoms remain poised and luminous. For me, this piece speaks to the way we bloom not in stillness, but within movement. Like tides, life shifts and pulls at us, yet beauty rises all the same.

A celebration of grace, depth, and quiet endurance, this painting invites a sense of calm while holding a subtle undercurrent of strength.

Artist Bio
Photo of Kay Shanley
Kay Shanley 175 artworks | 26 Sold

Welcome to the world of Kay Shanley, a Tasmanian artist whose work captures the resilience, beauty, and strength of women intertwined with the natural world. Based on the serene East Coast of Tasmania, Kay’s art is a testament to her journey, celebrating themes of growth and transformation.

Originally from the UK, Kay grew up in the Kent countryside, where she found solace and inspiration in nature amidst a challenging childhood. The orchards and quiet country lanes became her sanctuary, sparking a love for beauty and creativity that has remained with her. Today, she channels that early connection into her intricate compositions, blending vibrant botanicals, birds, and portraits of women who embody strength and grace.

Kay’s work is heavily influenced by Gustav Klimt and the Art Nouveau movement, with a modern twist. She incorporates bold, vibrant colours and metallic highlights to bring her subjects to life, creating a sense of enchantment and energy in every piece.

After a successful career in graphic design, Kay returned to her first love—fine art—and has since garnered recognition as a finalist in the prestigious Henry Jones Art Prize. Her paintings reflect her personal journey, balancing meticulous detail with an emotional depth that invites viewers to connect with her story.

Each piece is a celebration of beauty, resilience, and renewal, inspired by the landscapes of Tasmania and a life of transformation. Whether it’s a striking oil portrait or a whimsical miniature in watercolour, Kay’s art offers a window into her world and an invitation to find strength in beauty.

Explore her collection and discover art that speaks to the soul.