WHY DO I PAINT?

The power of colour is profound. It plays a huge role in my everyday life.

Why do I paint? I have been asked this many times and my answer is because I have a strong desire and urge to follow the wild unknown through paint and canvas.

Because I know that my life is a work of art inside and I want to reflect that on the outside.

Art reflects life, life reflects art.

Because it makes me happy.

Because it gives me purpose.

Because it gives me courage.

Because it gives me commitment.

My desire to pain is for the sake of exploration, raw expression, release and for the joy it brings me.

The process of painting is more than life changing, it is life giving.

“Though your destination is not clear, you can trust the promise of this opening;

Unfurl yourself into the grace of beginning that is one with your life’s desire.

Awaken your spirit to adventure.

Hold nothing back, learn to find ease in risk, soon you will be home in a new rhythm.

For your soul senses the world that awaits you “.

- John O’Donohue

Exhibition at Mental Health Foundation Australia Gala Night in Melbourne on 10/12/2021

Mental Health Foundation Australia Gala Night on 10th December 2021, where I displayed some of my paintings on the night. It was a delight for me to see the interest that the guests had for my work. I gave a speech based on the therapeutic effects that painting and any form of expressive arts has on the mind and wellbeing of individuals.

Part of my speech:

“Neurobiologists have found that creating and viewing art results in the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that controls the brain’s pleasure and reward centres. 


Isolation and stress caused by coronavirus has made many of us feel down, detached and lethargic.

Painting can calm the body and mind to help you feel more grounded and clear in these confusing and overwhelming times.

Psychologists have also found that creating and observing art can reduce cortisol, known as the “stress hormone”, and at the same time creativity releases endorphins and can even increase open-mindedness and heighten your ability to problem solve.


I am hoping that this display of paintings will inspire you to do something creative that calls your name, to distract your focus from these days happenings and create a new focus that makes you feel good.”

To sum it all up: A beautiful evening of celebration, awareness and friendship.