Tell us a bit about who you are and what kind of creative work you make
I grew up in Ryde and later married and settled in Hunters Hill.
I've always lead a creative life. I grew up in a historic home surrounded by art, gardens, and the influence of my father, who taught me about Australian plants, birds, and the beauty of the natural world. Those early experiences shaped everything I create today.
My business began over 32 years ago, originally focusing on painting flowers and Italian-inspired designs. My work has evolved into a deep exploration of Australian flora and fauna. I also create hand‑built organic ceramic pieces using native seed pods and materials, mostly from my own garden. Clay has always been a medium I love, and recently I've begun sculpting hand‑formed and painted Australian birds for the garden. My ceramics now span homewares, garden pieces, and jewellery.
In 2011, I completed a Certificate III at Ryde Horticultural College, which strengthened my plant knowledge. Drawing and painting remain my greatest passions, and a few years ago I began developing a fabric range based on my original artworks. With more than 40 years of experience as a graphic designer, I'm able to create repeat patterns, which are then printed by an Australian company onto fabric that I sew into homewares.
What creative projects are you working on at the moment?
I recently completed a large painting of our Hunters Hill home, built around 1880. The piece took roughly 70 hours and was accepted as a finalist in the Nora Heysen Prize at the Hunters Hill Art Exhibition, which celebrates female residents of the area.
I'm now preparing for a group exhibition at The Corner Gallery in Stanmore in July, as well as another group show at the IntoArts Gallery in West Ryde in August.
I'm also working on new paintings for my fabric range.
This year marks my 10th year participating in the Arcadian Artists Trail in the Galston–Dural region. Between exhibitions, markets, and ongoing creative work, I'm always busy and brimming with inspiration.
What's your favourite part of working as an artist or creative?
I feel incredibly grateful to do what I love and express myself creatively. I cherish the customers who connect with my work and the relationships built over many years at artisan markets and events. I enjoy explaining my process, sharing inspiration, and meeting other creatives who often become lifelong friends. My art practice also allows me to support meaningful causes, including wildlife and community fundraisers.
What's the most challenging part of working as an artist or creative?
The hardest part is balancing production, physically demanding markets, and the administrative side of running a business, such as maintaining my website. I dream of teaching classes one day, but time is always tight. Becoming more organised and finding help with admin tasks is a future goal.
We love recommendations! Who are some other local artists we should check out?
I admire the work of local artist Nichola Bryan, who promotes sustainability and ecological awareness through her art:
Another favourite is Lisa Shepherd, an incredibly talented Cyanotype artist
https://lisashepherdfloralartist.com/pages/contact-us
