Hello there,
I thought I would introduce myself…..
Always finding ways to create since I was very young, trying everything from sewing, drawing and just about every craft out there. I had to keep my hands busy. Art was a favourite subject at school as it allowed me to create with my hands and I had found a way to express myself. I had amazing Art teachers that encouraged me, despite my often lack of ability I persevered and developed a real desire to create.
“Sensible jobs” were pursued once leaving school and I rarely dabbled in anything creative other than baking, sewing and briefly played with acrylic paints until a chance meeting with a childhood neighbour and friend. I was encouraged to take my art further. I rediscovered art at my Local TAFE College. My two children had mostly grown up and were independent now, so I took the plunge in going back to learn something I was once passionate about.
I took every Painting and Illustration class I could. I simply could not get enough. I had found what made my heart sing. I remember sitting up in Illustration class at high desks and creating logos and working on illustrations for an upcoming Exhibition…so much detail (that I loved) and something just clicked…this is what I wanted to do !! After TAFE things had slowed down on the art front for a while as I was working part time and doubted that I really could take my art further, was I even good enough ?
The sudden loss of my Mother to Cancer felt unbearable to deal with, trying different ways to cope and express my emotions made me once again pick up a paint brush and create. We took an overseas trip back to Canada where my Mother was also born ( which I had left at the age of four) to catch up and connect with relatives and my Country of birth. The experience and sheer beauty of the countryside was breathtaking. By now the desire to get back and paint was undeniable. The fire was lit….
I remember sorting through her sewing supplies ( that were rather substantial ) and thought to myself that I didn’t want to leave the Earth with all my art supplies barely used !
Deciding that life was too short and what the heck was I waiting for ? I decided it was time to go for it and “make happen” a long time dream of mine to have my very own creative business. Art was helping me, maybe it could help others too. I would never know if I never tried. Furthering my practice by taking many workshops and experimenting with many mediums. Art had become my daily life. Watercolour became my favourite medium to use and I was hooked !
So here I am, a lover of colour, with a quirky sense of humour, often awkward, talk way too much and am finally learning to accept who I am. Having found art to be healing for both the giver and receiver, I hope to inspire others to find a creative outlet and share their joy.
Thank you for stopping by,
Tina