I consider myself extremely fortunate to be born with a love, passion and appreciation for colour, texture and all things art and craft.
It started when I was very young—colouring in for hours. But it wasn't until 2010 that I discovered my painting niche. I always knew I could paint. Not the realistic landscape or portrait kind of painting. That was way too conformist for me.
Ken Done was my inspiration in the 80's. With his abstract splashes of colour, bright and free. I wanted to express my inner painter too, in a unique way, with vibrancy, joy and most importantly.....No Rules!
This painting is a photo of an abstract painting in progress. It changed again and again.
Each layer of my paint and mark making adds interest to the finished piece.
It was one of the most exhilarating days of my life when I discovered my style and technique of painting using sea sponges in an abstract, impressionistic form. This painting here, Lightning Strikes, is one of two paintings that broke my painting drought at a weekend painting workshop/retreat. The other art piece is Angelica in the top left photo.
I also use recycled items as my tools for applying paint :)
Just goes to show that if you have an inner knowing about something and you hold the faith, it will happen! It took over 20 years for me.
This colourful and diverse outlet makes my heart sing, my face smile and I feel like a carefree child when I paint.
For numerous years prior to Covid I was a creative workshop facilitator contracted by Dardanup Shire and I ran a creative program at Southwest Women's Health and Information Centre.
During this time I taught a non-verbal, wheelchair bound young man how to use sea sponges to paint.
I have run workshops for the City of Busselton summer school and held my own painting workshops and women's circles.
With a wealth of practical knowledge behind me I decided to back this up with formal qualifications. That was a steep learning curve and massive comfort zone break throughs occurred over and over again. It is now complete! Here is my certificate to prove it :)
My purpose now, is to have fun being creative.
Offering my version of art to the public.
Inspiring joy and adding beauty to the world.
This will be expressed with paintings, art prints, simple poetry and products.
Aspects of the paintings are used in word art. These are little messages that uplift and encourage. They will be available early in 2025
JOY and Blessings, Marie x