A little about me.
Art, design and fashion are deeply intertwined threads in the tapestry of my creative life.
My love for art serves as the foundation, with design providing the structure, and fashion adding vibrancy and personal expression.
When I was in my mid-twenties and living in Germany, my interest was aroused in different arts and crafts, particularly painting. When I came back to Australia to live, I started taking tuition in oil painting with a local Brisbane artist. During this period I was working in IT and it was difficult to find the time to paint. It wasn’t until we retired in the early 90’s, and my husband Russell and I started renovating houses and flying to Europe for extended periods of 3 to 6 months travelling around in our motor home, that I found the time.
In 2000 we started work on our property, Villa Madonna, in Italy and from that point on we happily divided our time between Italy and Australia. We constructed a large studio at our Italian house where I paint, and create with clay. I primarily use the Raku firing method and I have three kilns specifically for raku firing.
It was in 2002 in both Italy and Australia that I commenced developing a more serious art practice, became involved with groups of artists, and started taking tuition again. This took me on a path of personal achievement and fulfilment.
For an exciting 8 year period we ran artist retreats in Italy, hosting prominent Australian artists and their students at Villa Madonna. During this time I had the pleasure of participating in some fabulous workshops from fine botanical art in watercolour, portraiture in oils, to bold abstract painting in acrylic, plus sculpture in clay.
Our Australian home is in Paddington, Brisbane which we renovated in 2012, creating a studio on the ground floor with lots of natural light, and 5.5 meter ceilings. So its in this fabulous studio that I spend most of my time in Brisbane surrounded by paintings in progress, and plenty of mess. I paint mainly using acrylic, and the quick drying time, vibrant colours and thick bodied paints I use suit the textured nature of still life, tropical foliage and subjects from everyday life that make up most of my work.
Designer fashion is another way in which I express my creativity. For me, fashion is more than just clothing – it’s a medium that speaks volumes, a way to tell stories without uttering a word.
Among my favourite designers, Dogstar, based in Brisbane, stands out as a significant influence. Their creations are a blend of architectural precision and ethereal softness, striking a perfect balance between boldness and delicacy. This aesthetic resonates deeply with my practice, inspiring me to explore boldness, colour, form and texture in my own work.
I am now in my fabulous 70’s, fit, and in good health, and for me, art and fashion are not separate realms but harmonious parts of a larger dialogue about identity, lifestyle and artistic expression.
For stylish unconventionally clothing, check out www.dogstar.com.au