I studied at Melbourne State College, in the 1888 Building, now Melbourne University campus, where I was privileged to learn from talented, exhibiting artists. There was always the expectation that I would teach art upon graduation, but a sideways decision led me into the corporate world of manufacturing and supply chain. During that time, I also immersed myself in family, which meant setting aside my artistic pursuits to allow my energy to flow where it was needed most. ‘I stored my art in a box in my brain’.
When Covid wrought its impact and an empty nest loomed, the lid to that ‘art box’ lifted. The joy of painting, the satisfaction of addressing a long-tampered need, re-emerged. Although formerly a portrait artist, I began to experiment with landscapes taken from my photos whilst hiking. I had previously worked in oils, but acrylics is my new medium, although I am always experimenting, - working to find that “voice” I admire in other artists- whether they be famous or not.
Painting is not a hobby, but a necessity- a form of meditation, a release when sad, an expression of happiness. It also provides moments of self-doubt and frustration - contradictory but true.
Now life has provided the dual gifts of time and travel, I channel my energy into creating paintings of those things I love - sunrises, landscapes, and seascapes.