In this workshop, we will be exploring the ways we can free our creative selves from photographic references and choose to paint what is in our minds--- a seascape that is totally 'us'. We will use the principles of basic design to create a unique and honest seascape in acrylics using a limited palette. The session will include a basic colour mixing segment, so you can see what colour variations happen with your chosen colours.
This is an exercise to challenge beginners and the more experienced to 'let go' and just paint, generally ending with a semi abstracted representational piece of art work in harmonious colour. We want to stay true to the loose, non photographic style and not get bogged down in detail. You may bring a photo of distant people walking on the beach, or sail boats etc to be added at the end, but no necessary.
I was born and raised on a rural property in Yallingup, WA, on a fourth-generation farming property. My days were filled with animals, imagination, horses, dance, creative writing, reading, martial arts and sports of all types - all a rather idyllic childhood. As the eldest of 5 children, I spent a lot of time imagining and creating, but did not begin my visual arts journey till my 20s. I now live 10 minutes from where I grew up, still on a farm, farming...but now 'arting' is my main passion.
I have an eclectic style and use most media, preferring whichever one will have the desired outcome. These include pastels, oils, acrylics, inks, watercolours, pyrography, porcelain paints (kiln-fired and oven-baked), colour pencils and lino cutting. Styles include photo realism, semi abstracted representational, abstracted, tangling, kiln-fired art, 'en plein air' oils, water colour pouring, mosaic-ing and textural pastelling...
My work has won multiple awards over the years, most recently (2025/6) 2nd place at the Perth Royal Show in the Affiliate Ag. section, 1st in the acrylics/oils section at the Boyup Art Awards and a pt and 2nd at the Wagin Woolorama. My work sells.
I am involved heavily in the art scene, being an active member of the Busselton Art Society, the local 'plein air' group, Australasian Porcelain Art Teachers Association, and others. Aiding in my knowledge of product has been my 13year stint as an employee of Jacksons Drawing Supplies, and I have been tutoring almost as long. My workshops are increasingly popular, requested by outside groups, Stirling Street Art Centre and interstate, as well as at the Busselton Art Society workrooms.
My aim, as always, is to share the love of art by encouraging newer artists and reflecting the colours and wonders of life around me.